The following message contains content related to gender-based violence, and may cause strong emotions to arise, especially for those with lived experience. It is recommended that you read the message when you feel safe and supported. Resources are available to support those in need, including REES (Respect Educate Empower Survivors), a community for survivors, 24-7 Crisis Line, and additional support services for those affected by gender-based violence. If you are in an emergency situation, please call 9-1-1.

16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) is an annual global campaign aimed at raising awareness and advocating for the elimination of GBV. The #16Days begin on November 25, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, include the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women on December 6, and end on December 10, International Human Rights Day. These days of significance highlight the link between violence against women and girls and the violation of human rights.

1 in 3 women will experience violence in their lifetime. This number increases during humanitarian emergencies or when women lack access to essential rights such as education and healthcare. While violence affects women worldwide, certain groups such as women with disabilities, adolescent girls, and older women often face greater barriers in having their voices heard or accessing critical support.

This year, the United Nations’ theme for #16Days is UNiTE to End Digital Violence against All Women and Girls. Online and digital spaces should empower women and girls. Yet every day, for millions of women and girls the digital world has become a minefield of harassment, abuse, and control. 

From 25 November to 10 December join the UNiTE campaign and take action to stop digital abuse against women and girls.

Ways to get involved

Join the campaign

• Kick-off the 16 Days by wearing purple on November 25, for the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women

• Honour the victims of the Polytechnique Montréal tragedy by wearing a white ribbon on December 6. Visit the web page of the National Day for other ideas.
  • RRC Polytech is hosting a vigil at the Roundhouse Auditorium, Manitou a bi Bii daziigae, Exchange District campus on Friday, December 5 from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. Please stay tuned for more details.

• Read the full text or simplified version of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Learn more

• Get the stats. Facts, stats and the impact of Women and Gender Equality Canada: Gender-based violence

• Learn about 16 ways you can help to end GBV

• Watch a movie, video or documentary related to GBV such as those available on the National Film Board website (various languages; viewer discretion is advised for some films)

Take action

Adopt these simple but powerful actions all year long:

• Listen: be open to learning from the experiences of others

• Believe: support survivors and those affected by violence. It is very important that you say the words “I believe you” and “This is not your fault”

• Educate (yourself and others): learn the facts about GBV, know what your workplace policies say about violence and harassment, take a course, participate in an event

• Speak out: add your voice to call out violence

• Intervene: find a safe way to help when you see acts of GBV. Name what you see. Express your concern and ask how you can help. Intervening can also mean providing support and resources

• Act: give your time or donate to organizations working to end GBV