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Diversity
In a society where differences are
often celebrated, being different can also cause individuals to be
more at risk for violence and abuse. It is estimated that there are
approximately 60,000 hate crimes committed annually in Canada’s nine
major urban centers. Sixty-one percent are directed against racial
minorities, 23% against religious minorities, 11% against groups of
different sexual orientation, and 5% against ethnic minorities.
(Canadian Heritage Multiculturalism, 2001) |
Violence Against .....
Gays, Lesbians and Bisexuals
The victimization of individuals because of their sexual orientation can
include harassment, vandalism, robbery, assault, rape and murder. It occurs
in schools, the workplace, public places and in the home.
The Perpetrators
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Those who commit these acts
come from all socio-economic backgrounds and represent different age
groups.
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The general profile of a
"gay-basher" is a young male, often acting with other young
males, all of whom are strangers to the victim(s). (Herek and Berrill,
1992)
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Like racism, sexism, and
other ideologies of oppression, heterosexism is manifested both in
societal customs and institutions. (Herek and Berrill, 1992)
Persons with Disabilities
Persons with disabilities must often depend on a large number of people to
care for them. The intimate physical and emotional contact involved in the
care they provide can greatly increase the risk of abuse.
The Perpetrators
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The offenders often have
economic and social power over those they abuse. Thirty-three percent of
offenders are friends or acquaintances, 33% are natural or foster family
members and 25% are caregivers or service providers. (Govt. of Nova
Scotia Fact Sheet 8, 2002)
| It is estimated that persons with
disabilities are approximately one and one half times more likely to
encounter violence against themselves than the population at large. (Roeher
Institute, 1995) |
People from Racial or Ethnic Minorities
Racial harassment is the threatening or unfair treatment of a person or
group because of their race, colour or ancestry. It may also be connected to
religious beliefs or language. It can be perpetuated by hate, ignorance and
misconceptions.
Myth:
Increased immigration leads to an increase in crime.
Fact:
There is no established connection between immigration and crime.
Immigrants are actually less likely to commit major crimes than
Canadian-born. (Canadian Council for Refugees, 1999) |
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The Human Rights Code for
Newfoundland and Labrador prohibits discrimination and harassment on the
basis of race, religion, sex, marital status, physical or mental
disability, political opinion, colour, or ethnic, national or social
origin, sexual orientation and age.
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