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Although women are not the only ones to suffer it, institutional violence adds to gender inequalities. Indeed, the less privileged populations are the most targeted, including women.
Institutional violence is committed by the state and by various institutions such as health and social services establishments.

This form of violence will be experienced more by some people depending on various factors. Origins, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, sex, language and migration status are examples of factors that can influence the frequency of institutional violence experienced by an individual.

Women have told us testimonies of institutional violence they experienced through different stages of their lives.

"I had the feeling that in some institutions or community organizations, my experience was trivialized. As if it was normal for a woman to be in distress, as if having mental health difficulties was part of the process to become a woman." Rose, 23

"I felt that the professionals were invalidating my suffering according to my appearance. I was told: You are beautiful, you are young, you don't have to worry." Arielle, 15 years old

“When I go to see community workers, I often got the message that my life could be better if I let go of my beliefs. Often, because the workers see them as problematic and when I talk about it, it creates unease. As if their interventions couldn't be adapted to what I'm telling them." Mireille, 41 years old

“I felt that there was a trivialization of my suffering. It was like it was normal that I had to sacrifice my life and my sanity for others. Even though I was already in distress from all the family and social responsibilities." Myriam 31

"During my meetings with psychologists, I sometimes received comments about my clothes. Either to try to understand my identity or to tell me their opinion (positive or negative) on my style. So I always had to think about what I was wearing, trying to find arguments to stand up for who I am. It's hard to accept help or trust when you still feel judged." Dariah, 26 years old