A significant portion of the global population either actively practices or holds some degree of affiliation to one of the many world religions. Religion, spirituality, and/or faith is a core element of the human experience. For many, religion is the source of one’s moral and ethical code, informing how they live their lives, conduct themselves, and interact with others and the world around them. Religion and religious belief can also inform the social and political principles and viewpoints they hold. Given this, faith-based contexts represent important settings for engaging in critical thinking, discussion, and action on primary prevention of violence against women and girls.
Unfortunately, religious institutions have also played a significant role in legitimizing violence against women and girls with beliefs that assert the divine superiority of men, which legitimizes domination and power over women who are scripted as inferior and subordinate to men. This may also translate to gender inequality in leadership and roles within the church and home. Often, interpretations of religious texts have been used to affirm men’s control over women and promote gender violence. As such, approaches within faith-based contexts that are gender-transformative are especially necessary.
Recognizing that religion and spirituality are important elements in the lives of many Canadians, some organizations have hosted events and developed resources on the issue of violence against women and girls in faith-based contexts, but more is needed. Increasing engagement with digital religion, including chat groups with religious leaders, online sermons and religious content on social media, provides unique opportunities for integrating gender-transformative approaches.