Cambridge Domestic and Gender Based Violence Prevention Initiative

The Domestic and Gender-Based Violence Prevention Initiative is a City of Cambridge program working to reduce domestic violence and change how the city responds to it. It engages residents, agencies and city departments to shift attitudes, behaviors, policies and practices around family and gender-based violence. Working with community leaders and local agencies, it develops accessible, safe and relevant strategies and resources for preventing and responding to abuse.

Services include training, consultation, building partnerships across sectors and coordinating systems change so survivors find compassionate, supportive environments throughout the city. The initiative’s work spans advocacy and policy development, prevention and public awareness, and community engagement and outreach. It frames domestic violence as connected to wider patterns of systemic oppression and keeps equity, inclusion and access at the center of its approach.

What to Know

• The initiative was established in 2014 by a coalition of city officials and community organizations.
• It is a division of the city’s Department of Equity and Inclusion.
• Its website lists free and confidential resources for people affected by violence.
• Frequently asked questions about domestic violence are available on its site.