Legal info for survivors

Community Legal Information’s RISE Program is launching new Arabic, Chinese and Spanish resources about how to report sexual assault in PEI.

“Every survivor should have access to clear legal information in the language they understand best,” says RISE Program Manager Sarah Dennis.

Sexual assault can cause survivors to experience trauma responses such as shock, anxiety, and difficulty concentrating. These normal responses can make it extremely difficult for survivors to learn about their legal options, or court processes.

“It’s even more challenging if the information a survivor is looking for is only available in their second or third language,” says Dennis.

Reporting a sexual assault, participating in medical exams to provide evidence, and testifying in court can retraumatize survivors. Offering survivors information about what to expect and about the decisions they have a right to make, can reduce the likelihood of causing further harm.

“By offering these translations, we hope to reduce barriers, empower survivors to make informed decisions, and prevent further harm,” says Dennis. These translations mark a step toward improving access to justice for the growing number of people in PEI who are most fluent in Arabic, Chinese, or Spanish.

Find the new Arabic, Chinese, and Spanish translations at legalinfopei.ca/information/resource/reporting-sexual-assault and at legalinfopei.ca/information/resource/sexual-assault-prosecution.

For more information, visit legalinfopei.ca/program/rise-program.