[a] A member of the Canadian Association of Sexual Assault Centres (CASAC),[3] it is an independent, non-governmental group with no connection to the criminal justice system.

[5] According to its website, this mission is accomplished by not only providing housing, education, resources, and support for women, but also by participating in global political struggles around issues of race, class, colonialism, and imperialism.

"[9] In August 1995 Kimberly Nixon, a trans woman, filed a complaint against the shelter with the British Columbia Human Rights Tribunal after being turned down for a place on its training programme for volunteer counselors.

Vancouver Rape Relief countered that individuals are shaped by the socialization and experiences of their formative years, and that, having grown up "experiencing men's privileges", Nixon would not be able to provide effective counseling.

[13] Vancouver Rape Relief's lawyer, Christine Boyle, applauded the decision, saying that the "right to organize has been confirmed and is under protection of the law".