Use this template to email you MLA 

Dear [Mr./Ms./Mx. Last name], 

I am a constituent in your riding, and I am writing to ask about the new provincial government’s plans to combat gender-based violence in BC.  

Each year in BC, 20,000 women experience relationship violence, and 50% of women in Canada have experienced sexual or physical violence in their life times (Government of Canada, 2021). Women and people of marginalized genders living in rural and remote communities in Canada experience almost double the rate of intimate partner violence (IPV) and are especially vulnerable.  

The recent report by Rise Women’s Legal Centre made recommendations to the provincial government to improve the family justice system for people experiencing family violence, particularly those in smaller communities. I am asking you to please read the report and: 

• In your term, work collaboratively with the Law Society of BC, Legal Aid BC, and the BC courts to enact positive changes for women and gender diverse people across the province.   

• Allocate more funding to expand family law advocacy services, and work to counter the shortfall of support workers in family court. 

• Invest in reliable cellular networks and internet services to improve safety and increase access to legal support for people in rural and remote areas.  

I am asking you to make gender-based violence an important part of your work over the next four years, and for you to look into implementing Rise’s recommendations.  

Will you now work towards creating a plan to combat gender-based violence? What specific actions will you take towards eliminating gender-based violence, particularly for people in BC who live outside of the Lower Mainland? Please respond with answers to these key questions. 

Yours sincerely, 

[Your name] 

[Your address with your postcode to show you live in your MLA’s electoral district]   

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