From Research to Action: Transforming Sexual Violence Education in Saskatchewan

In today's episode of Resolving Violence, we explore the groundbreaking work of the Sexual Assault Services of Saskatchewan (SASS). As a provincial non-profit organization, SASS collaborates with frontline agencies, community partners, and governments to provide vital support and advocacy for those impacted by sexual violence in Saskatchewan.

With over 25 years of experience, SASS has facilitated knowledge-sharing, collected crucial data, and bolstered the capabilities of frontline agencies while fostering intersectoral collaborations. Recently, SASS has assumed a leadership role in developing an inclusive and collaborative approach to addressing sexual violence in the province.

Our conversation is led by three esteemed individuals deeply entrenched in this field: Somiya Tabassum, Fakhra Shahid, and Dr. Marie Lovrod. They are actively involved in crafting innovative sexual violence education programs aimed at raising awareness and preventing such incidents. Today, they will shed light on the Saskatchewan Sexual Violence Education (SSVE) Initiative, a partnership between SASS and the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations. This initiative addresses the pressing need for educational programming that acknowledges the intersecting forms of sexual violence experienced by marginalized groups in Saskatchewan.

Join the rich conversation, and glean valuable insights into building a safer, more inclusive society for everyone.

Learn More About Our Guests:
Somiya Tabassum is a community nurturer and educational change maker, with a background in psychology and legal policy. During her tenure at Sexual Assault Services of Saskatchewan, she delved into how education could serve as a potent tool in combating sexualized violence in the province.

A central aspect of Somiya's work has been her dedication to "centering the margins," a term she fervently advocates for. This approach involves amplifying the voices and experiences of those most affected by sexualized violence, who are often marginalized in decision-making processes. 

Fakhra Shahid is a passionate advocate for mental health and a dedicated educator specializing in psychology and issues related to violence. Her journey in the world of psychology began with a deep love for understanding the intricacies of the human mind, and she has since become a driving force for positive change. Fakhra’s strength lies in her ability to bridge the gap between theory and practice. Her academic journey instilled in her a profound appreciation for the power of research and education to improve the lives of individuals struggling with challenges. As the SSVE Program Lead at SASS, she has made it her mission to provide crucial support to the community, emphasizing the importance of the healing process.

To connect with Fakhra, contact her at: [e-mail]

Marie Lovrod, PhD, is an associate professor in Women's and Gender Studies, as well as English, at the University of Saskatchewan. As a feminist researcher, Marie explores the connections between lived gendered experiences and structural forces, encompassing both material and conceptual realms.

Dedicated to leveraging institutional resources to empower marginalized groups and enhance their access to political power, Marie has made numerous substantial contributions towards addressing violence across various contexts. Her work spans a wide array of topics, including the impact of colonial educational environments, responses to childhood trauma, gender label practices in China, and the subject we will be discussing today, among others.

To connect with Dr. Lovord, contact her at: [e-mail]

To learn more about Resolve SK, head to research-groups.usask.ca/resolve/