She Matters United

Published purpose

This 25-month project aims to explore forensic DNA self-collection as an innovative solution to improve access to evidence collection after sexual assault in rural, remote, and underserved communities across Canada. Aligned with Call to Justice 5.5 of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, the initiative will examine international innovations from Australia, the UK, and Kenya, as well as domestic practices involving ongoing self-collection methods. Stakeholder interviews across number of provinces and territories will gather insights from legal professionals, law enforcement, front-line organizations, First Nations leaders, and medical professionals. A survey targeting the general public, including survivors, will assess perceptions and feasibility of self-collection. Key outputs include a draft forensic DNA self-collection protocol informed by literature, stakeholder feedback, and survey results. This protocol will be tested and refined through consultations and with healthcare providers. The project will culminate in a public webinar to share findings and gather additional input, ensuring recommendations reflect diverse needs. The final report will synthesize findings, provide actionable recommendations, and contribute to advancing equitable and accessible evidence collection solutions for survivors of sexualized violence across Canada. The supplemental funding will be used for in-person community engagement across the five identified regions of the project: Ontario, Yukon, Northwest Territories, Newfound and Labrador and Manitoba.