2021:03 Sexual Assault Forensic Exams - (Rape Kits)
Whereas #1 sexual assault is a traumatic experience for women and girls physically,
emotionally and psychologically, and seeking medical care should be encouraged;
and
Whereas #2 DNA evidence from a sexual assault crime can be collected from the person’s body, clothes or other personal belongings; and
Whereas #3 a Sexual Assault Forensic Exam and rape kit are key tools for law enforcement since they can safely collect and preserve DNA evidence of the alleged
perpetrator; and
Whereas #4 “rape kits” must be administered by trained medical personnel, and delays in administering the rape kits compromises the quality of the evidence collected; and
Whereas #5 in Canada 41 percent of hospitals are not equipped to administer this procedure often necessitating travel to another region; therefore be it
Resolved #1 that the National Council of Women of Canada (NCWC) adopt as policy that Sexual Assault Forensic Exams, commonly known as rape kits, and medical
personnel trained to administer this vital tool for law enforcement, be available in
all hospitals and remote clinics in Canada; and further be it
Resolved #2 that NCWC urge the Government of Canada to introduce legislation in
collaboration with the provinces and territories without delay to ensure that Sexual
Assault Forensic Exams, commonly known as rape kits, and medical personnel
trained to administer this tool vital for law enforcement, be available in all hospitals
and remote clinics in Canada; and further be it
Resolved #3 that NCWC advocate with the Canadian Hospital Association to make Sexual Assault Forensic Exams - rape kits, and medical personnel training be
part of Accreditation Canada’s requirements in all hospitals including remote clinics in Canada; and further be it
Resolved #4 that NCWC urge its provincial councils and affiliates to advocate locally to have Sexual Assault Forensic Exams – rape kits, and medical personnel to administer them, available in all hospitals and remote clinics in their areas.