We see you. We believe you. And we stand with you.

Centre Victoria pour femmes is deeply disappointed by the verdicts delivered this week in the case of the five former Team Canada Junior players, who were found not guilty on all charges of sexual assault. This outcome leaves us disheartened, shaken, and outraged, knowing the impact such a decision has on the broader fight against sexual violence, gender-based violence, and violence against women. A verdict like this discourages victims and survivors. It also deeply discourages those who work every day to support them.

Despite these verdicts, we want to acknowledge EM’s immense courage and reaffirm that we believe survivors.

Once again, we are reminded that the current justice system continues to fail survivors of sexual violence. Survivors who dare to speak out are too often questioned, discredited, and dismissed. Rape culture, myths, and stereotypes persist—both in courtrooms and in public discourse. Consent remains a concept that is too often misunderstood, overlooked, or ignored. Regardless of the verdict, we are clear: consent is something we must continue to defend, explain, and teach.

As a feminist organization committed to ending gender-based violence, we express our solidarity with all survivors—no matter what they choose to do, whether they report or not. Our work to support survivors is far from over. We believe victims, we believe survivors, and we will keep fighting.

#WeBelieveSurvivors #OnVousCroit