MONTREAL, Dec. 3, 2024 – The Montreal Women’s Groups Table (TGFM) is hosting a conference to launch the photo exhibition “Embark with us!” at the Sustainable Development House. This event, part of the 12 Days of Activism Against Violence Against Women and the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, highlights the insecurity faced by Montreal women with disabilities while traveling and their lack of faith in institutions to ensure safe journeys.

Data and accounts show that fear and experiences of sexual, physical, verbal, and psychological violence, plus falls and accidents on paratransit, public transit, and in public areas, limit their independent travel, especially as mothers, workers, students, and activists. “When we feel unsafe traveling, complaining feels futile. Generally, it doesn’t yield concrete results. We constantly worry about reliving these experiences on our next trip,” explains Florence Pardo, project manager at Action Femmes et Handicap.

Mobility challenges also impact the ability to quickly escape violent situations. Our survey indicates only a quarter of respondents consider public transit accessible and safe during emergencies. “While the STM has a paratransit protocol for domestic violence, it’s poorly known among affected women and support groups,” notes Manon Brière, Residential Services Coordinator at YWCA Montreal.

The “Embark with us!” photo exhibition, free and open to the public throughout December, raises awareness of challenges faced by eight women with disabilities during daily commutes and promotes inclusive and safe mobility policies and practices.

The Montreal Women’s Groups Table is a regional multi-sectoral coalition of over 60 members promoting and defending women’s rights from an intersectional feminist perspective since 1996. They engaged 10 women with lived experience, over 150 survey respondents, and numerous community groups to better understand the experiences of women with disabilities within Montreal’s transportation system.

SOURCE Table des groupes de femmes de Montréal