The Dominica Association of Persons with Disabilities (DAPD) Inc. has announced its plans to create a dedicated task force focused on addressing gender-based violence (GBV) among women with disabilities in Dominica.
This initiative was inspired by the participation of DAPD’s President, Ms. Judy Sango, at the recent symposium titled Women with Disabilities, Gender, and Violence Issues Across the Caribbean, held in Trinidad from June 25 to 26, 2025. Motivated by the impactful discussions and shared experiences during the event, Ms. Sango returned to Dominica with a strengthened resolve to combat the widespread issue of GBV affecting women with disabilities.
A DAPD press release describes the proposed Women with Disabilities Gender-Based Violence Taskforce as “a dynamic platform for education, advocacy, and empowerment, with a focus on the following key areas” :
– Education and Awareness: Conducting workshops, training sessions, and public awareness campaigns to inform women with disabilities about their rights and how to identify abuse.
– Support Networks: Creating safe spaces and peer support groups to facilitate the sharing of experiences, access to resources, and guidance.
– Policy Advocacy: Working with government bodies and policymakers to enhance legal protections and advocate for inclusive legislation that safeguards women with disabilities.
– Capacity Building: Equipping women with leadership skills, self-advocacy techniques, and knowledge to challenge discrimination and societal stigma.
– Regional Collaboration: Partnering with Caribbean organizations to exchange best practices and foster a united effort against gender-based violence.
Ms. Sango emphasized the importance of solidarity, stating, “Women with disabilities must know that they are not alone in their struggles.”
As the planning phase advances, DAPD invites collaboration from government agencies, civil society organizations, women with and without disabilities, and regional partners. The collective goal is to ensure that women with disabilities can live with dignity, safety, and equality.
“This Taskforce, once established, will be more than an initiative; it will be a movement of solidarity and empowerment. I hope that what we begin in Dominica will spark change throughout the region,” added Sango.