About
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What is SASC Ottawa?
The Sexual Assault Support center (SASC) is a registered Canadian charity and community-based organization that was established in 1983. We support all women and survivors. This including those from diverse groups, particularly, though not limited to, persons with disabilities, Indigenous people, immigrants and refugees, racialized persons, persons from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds, and those with diverse sexual orientations, gender identities, and expressions. SASC Ottawa strives to be a safe space for survivors of all intersections, and we believe a commitment to end gender-based violence is centred in the foundation of anti-oppressive values.
(Charity Registration: 107971806RR0001)
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Our Philosophy
SASC believes that sexual violence is not about sexual desire. Sexual violence is about power and control. SASC views survivor reactions to sexual violence as normal, healthy responses. SASC supports women survivors through respect, empowerment, shared experiences, and strength. SASC is a feminist organization committed to political action and social change. SASC believes that gender-based violence prevents all women from achieving full political, social, and economic equality. SASC believes that our commitment to end gender-based violence means we must also work to end oppression based on race, class, sexual orientation, religion, and ability.
The Work We Do
Our purpose is to provide survivor-directed support services by women, to women who have experienced sexual violence. We strive to increase public awareness and offer training on the issues and effects of gender-based violence. We also engage in action to pressure for change in the structures and systems that contribute to the practice, maintenance, and tolerance of violence, oppression, discrimination and exploitation. Our work is informed by the principles of a feminist, anti-oppression framework, and our vision is a society free of all forms of violence.
SASC Ottawa’s Board
Ezioma O. Emejuaiwe, Executive Director
Ezioma Onyekachi Emejuaiwe is the Executive Director of SASC Ottawa and is deeply committed to grassroots, anti-oppressive principles rooted in mutual respect.
In 1999, she began her journey with SASC as a volunteer while completing a student placement at the Nepean Community Resource Centre. Over the years, Ezioma has run a Family Law practice, led and supported numerous community initiatives, often combining her legal, advocacy, and creative skills.
Ezioma holds law degrees from the University of Ottawa and Abia State University, a Social Service Diploma from Algonquin College, and a Certificate in Mediation and Conflict Resolution from ADRLI. She is a mother of two daughters and an advocate for justice, equity, and inclusion.
Brenda Abramson, Chair
Brenda Abramson began her career as a scientist before transitioning into professional accounting and earning an MBA. She worked in financial management and audit across several federal government departments, eventually rising to the executive level over a 30-year career.
Brenda has been a lifelong volunteer, supporting her daughter’s sports teams, CPA Canada’s Financial Literacy program, Ancoura (mental health), and CoSA Ottawa (restorative justice). She also ran a low-income tax clinic at the Nepean, Rideau and Osgoode Community Resource Centre (NROCRC), receiving their Volunteer of the Year award in 2023.
That same year, Brenda joined the Boards of Directors of Nepean Housing Corporation (NHC) and the Sexual Assault Support Centre of Ottawa (SASC Ottawa). She became Vice-Chair of the Audit and Finance Committee at NHC in December 2023 and will be nominated as Chair in June 2024. In July 2024, she became Chair of the SASC Ottawa Board.
Martha Chertkow, Secretary
Martha Chertkow (she/her) joined the SASC Ottawa Board of Directors in 2021 and serves as Secretary. She spent over four years as a Crown Prosecutor in the Northwest Territories, prosecuting hundreds of sexual assault and domestic violence cases in remote communities.
She has also worked for the Department of Justice and currently leads the Independent Legal Assistance program at the Department of National Defence’s Sexual Misconduct Support and Resource Centre.
Martha completed her law degree at McGill, her Master of Laws at the University of Ottawa, and her undergraduate studies at Carleton University.
Laïla Demirdache
Laïla Demirdache has worked as a staff lawyer with Community Legal Services of Ottawa for over 20 years, specializing in immigration and refugee law. She provides legal representation in both English and French.
She has co-counselled on major litigation before the Federal Court, the Supreme Court of Canada, and the Ontario Court of Appeal, and participated in a Coroner’s Inquest into the death of a detainee in immigration custody.
Laïla has served on multiple committees for CARL and the Canadian Council for Refugees and is often appointed
Laura Gamez
Laura Gamez advises the federal government on emergency management, with a strong background in public policy and crisis response. Her career includes international work with humanitarian and development organizations, as well as policy analysis for the OECD.
Originally from Colombia, Laura has lived and worked in several countries and brings a global perspective to her advocacy. She holds a Bachelor’s degree from Carleton University and a Master’s degree from Sciences Po in Paris.
She is deeply committed to gender equality and to advancing intersectional approaches in public policy. In her free time, she enjoys exploring new trails, canicrossing with her dog, and discovering new places.
Jessica Inglis
Jessica Inglis (she/her) joined SASC Ottawa as a volunteer support worker in 2017 and was elected to the Board of Directors in 2019. She is currently serving her second term.
Jessica has a background in social services and community health, supporting children, families, older adults, and individuals affected by dementia.
She is committed to feminist and anti-oppressive values and applies a trauma-informed approach to all of her work.
Melissa Howe
Melissa Howe joined the SASC Ottawa Board in 2022 and serves on the Finance Committee. She has been a Registered Psychotherapist and Registered Couple and Family Therapist since 2019.
She works with neurodiverse teenagers and adults and is committed to providing accessible, client-centered care.
Melissa is also a mother to a young daughter and a Dalmatian.
Jaime Lefebvre
Jaime Lefebvre is a 32-year veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces Primary Reserves. She is also a lawyer who is currently not practicing in order to pursue other goals.
Jaime is an intersectional feminist with a strong belief in community service. Outside of work and volunteering, she enjoys spending time outdoors with her family.
