Alberta’s Education Policies Threaten Gender Violence Prevention Efforts

The Supreme Court of Canada has ruled that mandatory minimum sentences for the possession or access of child sexual abuse material may be unconstitutional in certain circumstances. This decision highlights the unique severity of such crimes, which the court acknowledges deserve harsh penalties. However, the court criticized how the Criminal Code applies these mandatory minimums too broadly.

In response to this ruling, some Canadian politicians, including Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, have expressed criticism, prompting legal experts to caution against misleading public perceptions of the legal system. Research indicates that effectively preventing gender-based violence (GBV) relies on addressing the social conditions that contribute to harm rather than solely focusing on punitive measures.

While Smith’s remarks have sparked outrage, her legislative record reveals policies that undermine GBV prevention across the province. Measures targeting transgender rights in health, education, and sports appear to foster gender-based inequality for transgender individuals, girls, and women. Moreover, restrictions on sexual health education limit the number of students receiving crucial education on sexual violence prevention.

Rising Concerns Over Online Child Exploitation

Online child exploitation encompasses a range of criminal behaviors. In 2022, Canada recorded 9,131 offences related to online child sexual abuse material, which surged to 16,892 in 2023. These figures reflect reported incidents, yet they do not capture the full extent of the issue. Critics argue that the current legal framework is insufficient in addressing sexual violence, advocating for more preventive legal interventions and heightened accountability for technology platforms involved in these crimes.

Understanding GBV requires recognizing that it includes any violence based on gender, gender expression, identity, or perceived gender. This definition encompasses sexual violence, such as child sexual abuse, as well as hate-motivated violence. Commonly accepted views suggest that GBV stems from structural forms of violence, including racism, sexism, and colonialism.

Effective primary prevention strategies target the root causes of GBV through education and programs that reduce inequality. These initiatives aim to challenge beliefs that normalize violence and mitigate risk factors associated with offending behaviors.

Impact of Legislative Changes on Prevention Strategies

Despite substantial evidence supporting comprehensive prevention in schools, Smith’s administration has weakened GBV prevention efforts. In May 2023, the Alberta government announced a ten-year strategy to combat GBV; however, critics argue that the governing United Conservative Party’s policies are rooted in harmful misconceptions.

Teaching about gender inequality and diversity is crucial for primary prevention, yet Alberta’s curriculum ranks lowest in Canada for 2SLGBTQIA+ inclusivity. Students from kindergarten to Grade 6 have only one opportunity to learn about diverse family structures during Grade 3 physical education classes. Under recent Alberta legislation, families must opt-in for these lessons, which restricts access to essential knowledge on puberty, hygiene, and consent.

Additionally, Smith’s government has instituted prior ministerial approval for educational resources and third-party organizations that support sexual health education. This requirement has led to the approval of only four organizations as of November, creating significant gaps in programming, especially in rural areas with higher rates of GBV.

Under Smith’s leadership, policies now demand parental permission for transgender youth to use preferred names or pronouns in schools. This policy can cause harm, as studies indicate that allowing trans youth to use their preferred names reduces suicidal behaviors by nearly 60%. Furthermore, a ruling from Saskatchewan’s top court indicated that similar policies pose risks of irreparable harm to youth, including increased family violence.

Smith’s government has also restricted access to gender-affirming healthcare for trans youth, introducing measures that ban several procedures already unavailable to those under the age of 18. The rationale, presented in a video titled “Protecting Future Choices of Children,” implies that a child’s future fertility is a matter of state concern, a view criticized for its misogynistic undertones.

The Need for Effective Prevention Policies

Without effective prevention measures, GBV is likely to escalate, further straining the underfunded support networks for survivors. If the Alberta government genuinely aimed to address GBV, its legislative agenda would reflect a commitment to preventative strategies rather than policies that contribute to harm.

Both Jamie Anderson and Hilary Jahelka, who have conducted research on GBV, emphasize the urgent need for comprehensive prevention efforts that educate and empower individuals to challenge the norms perpetuating violence. Without a shift in approach, the cycle of violence may continue unabated, putting vulnerable populations at greater risk.

This article reflects the views of its authors, who have disclosed their affiliations and funding sources relevant to the topic. The ongoing dialogue around GBV prevention necessitates attention and action from both provincial and federal authorities to ensure that all individuals, regardless of their gender identity, are protected and supported.