16 Days of Activism: Answering the Call to End Gender-Based Violence

Every year, the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign runs from November 25, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, to December 10, Human Rights Day. This initiative highlights the urgent need to end violence against women and girls, fostering a global movement to promote gender equality and prevent violence.

Gender-based violence (GBV) encompasses a wide range of harmful acts directed at individuals based on their gender identity, including physical, sexual, emotional, psychological, and financial abuse. This violence often stems from deep-rooted societal norms and power inequalities and can occur in various settings, including homes, workplaces, and public spaces.

In Canada, Indigenous women and gender-diverse people face alarmingly high rates of violence. They are three times more likely to experience violence than non-Indigenous women and are also significantly overrepresented among homicide victims; in 2019, Indigenous women accounted for 16% of female homicide victims despite representing only about 4% of the female population (source). These statistics highlight the urgent need to address the specific challenges faced by Indigenous communities and the systemic issues that contribute to this violence.

This year, we spotlight six key organizations and initiatives in Canada that are making significant strides in this vital area.

Women and Gender Equality Canada (WAGE) is a pivotal federal agency advancing equality for women, gender-diverse people, and their communities. Through advocacy, policy development, and funding initiatives, WAGE plays a crucial role in combating gender-based violence. Their programs focus on prevention, awareness, and support for survivors.

One of their major contributions is the provision of resources that educate the public about GBV and the necessity of a comprehensive response system. WAGE’s commitment to engaging with community partners ensures that the voices of those most affected by GBV are heard and prioritized in policy-making processes. By fostering a national dialogue and providing tools for advocacy, WAGE empowers communities across Canada to take action against gender-based violence.

The National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence is a comprehensive framework designed to address and reduce violence against women and gender-diverse individuals across Canada. This plan outlines strategies to improve prevention, provide better support for survivors, and ensure accountability for perpetrators.

The plan emphasizes collaboration among federal, provincial, territorial, and Indigenous governments, recognizing that a coordinated response is vital to effectively combat GBV. Key components include enhancing victim services, increasing funding for shelters and crisis centers, and implementing educational programs that promote respectful relationships and consent. The action plan serves as a roadmap, guiding stakeholders in their efforts to create safer communities and eliminate violence in all its forms.

The YWCA is at the forefront of combating gender-based violence through its impactful report, "What We Heard: Survivor-Led Strategies to Inform the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence." This document highlights the voices and experiences of survivors, emphasizing the need for inclusive, survivor-informed strategies. By advocating for systemic change, the YWCA focuses on prevention, support services, and policy reform. Their initiatives aim to empower individuals, educate communities, and drive national awareness, ensuring survivors receive the recognition and resources they deserve. Through collaboration and advocacy, the YWCA is committed to creating a safer, more equitable society for all.

The Native Women’s Association of Canada plays a critical role in combating GBV and advocating for the rights of Indigenous women. NWAC works to raise awareness about the unique challenges faced by Indigenous women and to promote policy changes that address these issues. Their initiatives include providing resources for survivors, conducting research to inform advocacy efforts, and creating programs aimed at prevention and support. By centering Indigenous voices and experiences, NWAC aims to create safer communities and promote healing for those affected by violence.

As we participate in this important campaign, we can all play a role in combating gender-based violence.

By supporting these organizations and initiatives, we can contribute to a future where everyone can live free from violence and fear. Together, we can turn the tide against gender-based violence and create a society grounded in respect, dignity, and equality for all.