Sexual Violence and Related Offences Understanding Sexual Violence
Sexual Assault
Sexual assault is any unwanted sexual activity that occurs without voluntary consent. It includes a wide range of behaviours, from unwanted touching or kissing to forced sexual intercourse. In Canada, sexual assault is classified as a criminal offence under the Criminal Code, and it is treated as a serious violation of personal autonomy and dignity.
Consent must be given freely and clearly. It must not be obtained through coercion, manipulation, threats, or while someone is incapacitated by drugs or alcohol. In Ontario, like the rest of Canada, consent can be withdrawn at any time—even during a sexual act.
Sexual assault can happen in any context, including within marriages, dating relationships, workplaces, families, or between strangers. It affects people of all genders, ages, and backgrounds.
Historical Sexual Assault
Historical sexual assault refers to incidents of sexual violence that occurred in the past but are being reported in the present. There is no time limit (or “statute of limitations”) for reporting sexual assault in Canada. Survivors can come forward days, months, or even decades later.
Victims may delay reporting for many reasons, including fear, trauma, or social stigma. In Ontario, police services, courts, and victim support organizations are experienced in handling historical cases with sensitivity and confidentiality.
Voyeurism
Voyeurism is a crime in Canada that involves secretly observing or recording someone in a private situation—such as when they are nude, undressing, or engaged in sexual activity—without their knowledge or consent. This includes actions like secretly filming someone in a washroom, bedroom, change room, or through hidden cameras.
In Ontario, it is considered a violation of an individual’s right to privacy and personal security. Voyeurism can happen in both physical and digital spaces, and cases often involve hidden cameras, online sharing, or misuse of surveillance tools.
Survivors of voyeurism often experience significant emotional harm, even if there was no physical contact. It is important that this crime is taken seriously and that victims are supported with the same level of care as other forms of sexual violence.
How Victim Services Can Help
Victim Services organizations across Ontario provide confidential, trauma-informed support to individuals affected by sexual assault, historical sexual assault, and voyeurism. Regardless of when the incident occurred or whether it has been reported to police, help is available.
Support may include:
- Crisis intervention and emotional support
- Safety planning and emergency assistance
- Accompaniment to hospital, police, or court appointments
- Referrals to specialized counselling or community supports
- Help navigating the justice system or exploring reporting options
- Assistance applying for financial support through programs like the Victim Quick Response Program+ (VQRP+)
Whether you are dealing with the aftermath of a recent event, coming forward about something from your past, or coping with the impacts of a privacy violation like voyeurism, you are not alone. Services are available for people of all genders, backgrounds, and ages.
