RRC Polytech’s fourth-annual Inclusion Week is March 9 to 13, 2026! The week-long event is filled with in-person and virtual opportunities for students, staff and faculty to learn how to embody equity, diversity, inclusion and accessibility at work, in class, and in our personal lives.

Stay tuned to this page, more events and details are coming soon!

We strive to host accessible events. If you require an accommodation, please email diversity@rrc.ca.

Schedule of Events

Monday, March 9

Tuesday, March 10

Interruption Skills – Responding to Microaggressions and “Crunchy Moments”
Presented by Natalie Bell
Interactive Practical Skills Session
12:00 – 1:00 p.m.
Hybrid: Teams/Roundhouse Auditorium, Manitou a bi Bii daziigae

This session is approachable, real, and skill-based – facilitated in a respectful, strengths-based way, no overwhelming theory. Participants will leave with simple language, response options they can actually use, and a one-page takeaway tool that helps them to: 

• Recognize common microaggressions and “edge-of-respect” comments in workplace and classroom settings 
• Learn 3–4 practical response options (from subtle to direct) to use in the moment 
• Practice a simple interruption script (what to say, how to say it, what to do next)
• Understand how to follow up after the moment (repair, support, and escalation pathways when needed)

 

REGISTRATION TBD

About the Presenter

Natalie Bell has spent over two decades supporting the Winnipeg community as a senior HR consultant, helping organizations strengthen how people work together—through practical, people-first strategies that actually stick. Her approach is grounded and holistic: clear insights, real tools, and support that meets people where they’re at (especially when the topics are hard).

Natalie brings a strong mix of real-world experience and academic knowledge, plus a deep network built on integrity and meaningful relationships. Whether she’s facilitating, coaching, or advising, Natalie is known for making complex workplace moments easier to name and navigate—without losing the humanity in the room.

Wednesday, March 11

Thursday, March 12

Stories We Carry: The Hijab, Identity, and Inclusion
Storytelling Workshop
Presented by Amna Burki
12:00 – 1:00 p.m.
EMP Immersion Room, Notre Dame Campus

This interactive storytelling workshop invites students to explore how visible expressions of identity, including religious attire such as the hijab, shape experiences of belonging, perception, and inclusion in campus and community settings.  

Using storytelling as a reflective and connective tool, Amna Burki guides participants through conversation and shared narratives that examine assumptions, stereotypes, and the stories we tell about one another. While the hijab is a point of reflection, the session also creates space to discuss other forms of religious and cultural dress and what they represent.  

Participants are encouraged to reflect on identity, visibility, and respect, and to consider how curiosity, empathy, and listening can contribute to more inclusive campus communities. No prior storytelling experience is needed, only openness to learning and dialogue.  

About the Presenter

Amna Burki is a storyteller, facilitator, and DEIB consultant who harnesses the power of storytelling to cultivate leadership, inclusion, and cultural understanding. With a background in Economics, Management, and Gender Studies, she brings over two decades of experience working with community organizations and non-profits, advocating for equity and belonging.  

As a trained oral storyteller, Amna recognizes storytelling as one of the most powerful ways humans make sense of the world and an essential skill for effective leadership. She has collaborated with boards, non-profits, and businesses to facilitate meaningful conversations, using storytelling to bridge divides, build resilience, and enhance communication. A sought-after speaker and storyteller, she believes stories have the power to drive lasting change. 

rEGISTRATION TBD

Friday, March 13

Self-Guided Resources

RRC Polytech is dedicated to fostering a respectful community that values diversity, inclusion, and equity — a place where we come together to learn from one another, celebrate our unique cultures and experiences, and support each other. Our community is one where everyone is welcomed for who they are, and for the contributions we can create together.

In 2026, the sacred month of Ramadan begins around February 17 and ends around March 19. Ramadan is a meaningful time for Muslims around the world, marked by obligatory fasting and a spiritual cleanse.

To members of the faith, the ninth month on the Islamic lunar calendar is considered the holiest, and healthy adults who are able are required to fast from food and drink during the sunlit hours as a means of drawing closer to God and cultivating self-control, gratitude, and compassion for those less fortunate. Ramadan is a month of intense spiritual rejuvenation with a heightened focus on devotion and special prayers.

At the end of Ramadan, Muslims celebrate one of their major holidays called Eid ul-Fitr or the “Festival of the Breaking of the Fast.” In 2026, the holiday will be celebrated around March 20, and features prayer, ceremony, food, games and presents for children as friends and family spend time together.

While the personal commitment to these sacred rituals may go unnoticed by some and spark curiosity in others, please be mindful that this observance may result in altered sleep patterns, changes in energy levels, increased anxiety around meeting deadlines, and requires a commitment to prayer timings.

Here are a few ways for non-Muslims to be supportive of students, staff and members of the Polytech community who are fasting for Ramadan:

• Be flexible, adaptable, and respectful.
• Be conscientious of how much physical energy is required for an activity or outing you may propose, the time of day in which meetings or events may fall, and the settings in which you are doing them.
• There are also various reasons Muslims may not be fasting, premised in the faith tradition or entirely personal, so you shouldn’t assume or ask someone if they’re observing. Please respect their privacy unless they choose to share and engage.
• Be an ally in your department to those who are observing Ramadan and seek out more information to better understand and support your colleagues.

Click here to learn more about Ramadan.

February is Black History Month, a time for people across Canada to learn about and celebrate the diversity, achievements, and lasting contributions of Black communities. It is also an opportunity to reflect on Canada’s history, recognize ongoing systemic barriers, and reaffirm our shared commitment to advancing equity and addressing anti-Black racism.

This year marks three decades of Black History Month in Canada. The 2026 theme, “30 Years of Black History Month: Honouring Black Brilliance Across Generations — From Nation Builders to Tomorrow’s Visionaries,” recognizes the leadership, creativity, innovation, and resilience of Black Canadians. Their excellence has shaped our past, continues to influence our present, and will inspire future generations.

As we commemorate this milestone, we invite the RRC Polytech community to celebrate Black communities as an integral part of RRC Polytech’s diverse and vibrant campus, and to honour the meaningful contributions Black Canadians continue to make in shaping society.

Learn, Get Involved, and Stay Engaged

Here are some ways to learn, celebrate and participate in Black History Month 2026:

Events at RRC Polytech and in the Community

Black Business Market | Hosted by: RRC Polytech Anti-Racism Action Committee
The Library Hallway, NDC | Friday, February 13 | 10:30 A.M. – 2:30 P.M.

Celebrate Black History Month by supporting Black-owned businesses! Explore unique products and talents from local entrepreneurs in a vibrant, community-focused market.

film screening: BLACK SOUL (9 mins) & black mother black daughter (28 mins)

• WHITE THEATRE (GM-42), NDC | WEDNESDAY, February 11 |12:00 to 1:00 P.M.

• P107, EDC | MONday, February 23 | 12:00 to 1:00 P.M.

About the Films

Black Soul – NFB (9 mins) – Martine Chartrand’s animated short dives into the heart of Black culture with an exhilarating trip though history. Watch as a young boy traces his roots through the stories his grandmother shares with him about the events that shaped their cultural heritage.

Black Mother Black Daughter – NFB (28 mins) – This film explores the lives and experiences of black women in Nova Scotia, their contributions to the home, the church and the community and the strengths they pass on to their daughters.

Register for the Film Screening here

Additional Resources

• Anti-Racism Learning Toolkit – A curated collection of books, videos, articles, and podcasts from RRC Polytech’s Library and Academic Services to support learning, reflection, and action on racism.
• Anti-Racism: A Journey to Allyship – A mandatory training for all RRC Polytech staff offered through LEARN. The course explores unconscious bias, microaggressions, systemic racism, and privilege, and supports self-reflection to help identify and address racist behaviours and attitudes. It also provides practical tools to respond to racism and foster safer, more inclusive spaces. Staff are encouraged to revisit the training regularly to support ongoing learning and growth.
• Anti-Racism Action Committee – Welcomes new members who are passionate about advancing equity, diversity, and inclusion, and making a meaningful impact. Learn more and get involved by visiting the Anti-Racism Action Committee page on Staff Forum.
• About Black History Month – Government of Canada overview of the history and significance of Black History Month in Canada
• Significant events in Black history in Canada – A resource highlighting key milestones in Black Canadian history.
• Organizations and educational resources on the history of Black communities in Canada – A collection of organizations and learning resources focused on Black history in Canada.
• Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion (CCDI) Resources:
  • Black History Month Commemoration Guide
  • Guided Learning on Black History Month

January 4 is recognized as World Braille Day, in honour of its inventor, Louis Braille. Every day, thousands of blind individuals rely on Braille for a wide range of tasks: writing shopping lists, labeling household items, reading novels, solving math and science problems, learning music, and even composing their own pieces.

Braille is a tactile representation of alphabetic and numerical symbols using six dots to represent each letter and number, and even musical, mathematical and scientific symbols. Braille is used by blind and partially sighted people to read the same books and periodicals as those printed in a visual font.

The growing presence of Braille signage makes navigating spaces like hotels, office buildings, government facilities, and campuses much easier for blind people. Braille is as versatile as printed text, can be learned in about the same amount of time, and offers a smooth, fluent reading experience.

To learn more, please visit the website for the National Federation for the Blind.

When you step inside the Emerging Media and Production (EMP) Immersion Room at RRC Polytech, you aren’t just entering a space – you’re entering a story.  

Ininew artist Heather Endall has partnered with EMP and Truth and Reconciliation and Community Development (TRCE) to create an immersive media installation centered on anti-racism called Reflections on Racism (working title). It transforms Indigenous storytelling into a sensory experience that invites viewers to feel, question, and reflect on their own understanding of racism, empathy, and inclusion. 

As Artist-in-Residence, Endall is responsible for designing all the visual elements in the 360º wraparound projection – every inch is created through the strokes of a brush on canvas and superimposed through the projections with photography. The production team at EMP uses Endall’s work as the foundation for the immersive experience and progresses the story through animation, narration, and music. 

At the centre of the installation is How the Dog Learned to Dance, a story by Swampy Cree author Michael Hutchinson that explores diversity, acceptance and allyship through a lens of spirit and humility. The story unfolds through motion, light, and sound that surrounds viewers in a world that challenges perceptions and inspires introspection. 

The project reflects Universal Design for Learning, ensuring accessibility through virtual reality and online formats so all members of the Polytech community can engage. It’s a living example of how technology and Traditional Knowledge can coexist, creating space for empathy and understanding in ways that are both deeply personal and widely shared. 

Endall says that Reflections on Racism is the first multimodal project she’s worked on. 

“When [the Polytech] approached me, they already had the storyline to guide the painting – I was tasked with creating something that moved and flowed between moments in time, between the physical and the spiritual,” said Endall. “I’ve experienced racism throughout my life, so I knew immediately that this project is going to show us how we shouldn’t see each other as being different.” 

Endall says she was introverted as a child growing up in Brandon, Manitoba with her grandparents and communicated best through drawings and crafts. Her creativity sparked a small business in elementary school where she sewed, beaded, and painted small gifts for her peers. Since then, she’s become a nationally-recognized entrepreneur with a bachelor’s degree in fine arts from the University of Manitoba and an ARTC diploma in classical piano. Her artistic designs can be found on moccasins, mukluks, and ceremonial drums through her work with Manitobah Mukluks, where she continues to weave contemporary expression with ancestral inspiration – and now, her work will be seen in motion in RRC Polytech’s Immersion Room. 

In the Immersion Room, visitors will have the opportunity to engage not only as observers, but as participants – sharing their own reflections, stories, and experiences through interactive elements woven into the installation. 

For RRC Polytech, the installation embodies the Polytech’s mission to “embrace disruption, diversity, new technology, and Traditional Knowledge” while cultivating a community where everyone feels recognized and valued. Through Endall’s artistry and the collaborative work of EMP and TRCE, Reflections on Racism transforms those values into something you can see, hear, and feel – a reminder that empathy begins with understanding, and that every reflection can lead to change. 

“Embedding anti-racism into everything we do means that we’re using all the tools and resources we have available to strengthen our message: we have zero tolerance for racism in our institution,” said Carla Kematch, Director, Truth and Reconciliation and Community Engagement. “Creating a multimedia experience to engage with anti-racism is another way for us to open up the discussion and help people learn to recognize and address implicit biases in themselves and in their community.” 

Reflections on Racism is expected to be unveiled in September 2026 for the eighth annual Truth and Reconciliation and Community Engagement Week. Members of the Polytech community can book time in the Immersion Room to view the Truth and Reconciliation Immersive Experience any time along with several other installations by contacting Emerging Media and Production. 

On December 10, we recognize International Human Rights Day, which is observed globally in recognition of the United Nations General Assembly’s proclamation of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) in 1948.

The UDHR outlines the fundamental rights of all humans – including equality, life, freedom, and security – regardless of religion, language, gender, race, colour, opinion, property, or status.

Ways to Participate in Human Rights Day

Learning about human rights helps empower us to advocate for our rights and the rights of others.

For Human Rights Day 2025, the United Nations’ theme is Human Rights, Our Everyday Essentials. This theme serves to reaffirm the values of human rights and show that they remain a winning proposition for humanity.

Together, we can mobilize global efforts towards a better, more equitable future for all.

• Read the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR)
• Visit the Government of Canada’s website
• Learn about Canada’s contributions to drafting the UDHR
• Visit a UN online photo exhibit

International Human Rights Day at the Canadian Museum for Human Rights

On December 10, the Canadian Museum for Human Rights opens its doors for free in recognition of International Human Rights Day. From 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., visitors are invited to explore thousands of powerful human rights stories – stories that illuminate resilience, spark dialogue and inspire each of us to reflect on our own journey.

For more information, please click here.

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.

In Canada, we recognize the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women on December 6, to commemorate the 14 women at Polytechnique Montréal whose lives were taken due to violent misogyny. It is a time to honour these women’s lives and commemorate all the women and gender-diverse folks that we have lost due to gender-based violence.

RRC Polytech is hosting a vigil on Friday, December 5, 2025. All staff and students are invited to join the College community as we foster hope and healing for a future free from gender-based violence.

December 6 Vigil

• Date and Time: Friday, December 5, 2025, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m.
• Location: Roundhouse Auditorium (second floor), Manitou a bi Bii daziigae, Exchange District Campus.
  • The vigil will also be livestreamed. Register for the link to join.
• Speakers and Guests:
  • The Honorable Renée Cable, Minister of Advanced Education and Training, Government of Manitoba
  • The Honorable Nahanni Fontaine, Minister of Families, Government of Manitoba
  • Fred Meier, President and CEO, RRC Polytech
  • Jayne Geisel, Associate Dean, Construction, RRC Polytech
  • Japsharan Kaur, Vice President, Academic, RRC Polytech Students’ Association

ASL-English interpretation will be provided. At RRC Polytech, we strive to host inclusive events. If you require accommodation, please email events@rrc.ca.

Please note that registration is not required for the in-person vigil. Coffee and tea will be provided.

Additional Ways to Recognize December 6:

• Wear a white ribbon
• Observe a moment of silence at 11:00 a.m.
• Learn more about gender-based violence

About White Ribbons

Wearing a white ribbon symbolizes your pledge to never commit, condone or remain silent about violence against women and girls. White ribbons also remind us to pause, to commemorate all women who have been killed or affected by violence, and to reflect on what can be done to help end violence.

RRC Polytech has purchased ribbons for staff and students to wear from White Ribbon. The organization was founded two years after the Massacre in Montreal when a group of men came together to look for safe ways to support women through education and allyship. This Canadian organization seeks to prevent gender-based violence through changing behaviors, attitudes, and values of man and boys throughout Canada and the world. Their values are Gender Justice, teaching men and boys how to respect women and girls, Anti-Oppression, Collaboration, Innovation, Integrity, and Compassion.

Where to Pick-up a White Ribbon

White ribbons are available at the following on-campus locations:

• Exchange District Campus
  • Campus Store – Roblin Centre (Main floor of Building P)
  • Security Services – Roblin Centre (Main floor of Building P)
  • Security Services – Manitou a bi Bii daziigae (Main floor)
  • Security Services – Paterson GlobalFoods Institute, Room 100
  • RRC Polytech Students’ Association Office – P110
     
• Notre Dame Campus
  • Campus Store – Mall Level (just off the bus loop)
  • Security Services – C115
  • RRC Polytech Students’ Association Office – CM-20 (Mall Level, C Building)

Ribbons are also available at Regional Campus offices.

Happy International Day of Persons with Disabilities!

December 3 is International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) – a global day to celebrate the unique ways people experience and contribute to our world.

This year’s theme, “Fostering disability-inclusive societies for advancing social progress,” reminds us that building a fair, inclusive, and equitable society benefits everyone.

IDPD is a time to:

• Celebrate the contributions of people with disabilities
• Understand the barriers they face
• Commit to reviewing our progress and continue building accessible communities and workplaces.

Accessibility is not just about ramps or technology – it’s about removing barriers so everyone can participate fully and thrive.

What Does Disability Mean?

The term persons with disabilities includes people with long-term physical, mental, intellectual, or sensory impairments. These conditions, combined with barriers in the environment or attitudes, can limit full participation in society.

Disability is not about what a person can or cannot do – it’s about the mismatch between a person and their surroundings. When we remove barriers, we create fairness and opportunity for everyone.

Celebrating Neurodiversity

IDPD is also a time to celebrate one important part of human diversity – the many ways our brains work.

Neurodiversity means that everyone’s brain works differently, and these differences are valuable. There is no single “right” or “normal” way to think, learn, or experience the world.

This includes:

• Neurotypical people: whose brains process information in ways most common in society.
• Neurodivergent people: whose brains work differently. This includes people with Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia, Tourette’s, and other conditions.

It’s important to remember that neurodiversity is a broad spectrum, and every person’s experience is unique. These differences are not deficits – they are part of what makes us human. To learn more, visit this helpful article from the Cleveland Clinic: Neurodivergent.  

Why Different Thinking Makes Stronger Teams

Imagine a team solving a complex problem. If everyone thinks the same way, they miss out on new ideas.

 Neurodiverse teams bring a wide range of perspectives and skills:

• Some people see patterns and details others miss
• Others connect ideas in creative ways
• Some focus deeply on complex tasks
• Others think visually and see the big picture

No single thinking style is “better.” Together, these differences make teams stronger, more creative, and better at innovating.

Why This Matters on IDPD

If these differences are strengths, why highlight them on IDPD?  The answer is simple: the challenge often isn’t the person – it’s the environment.

For example:

• A noisy office can make it hard to focus
• A meeting with only spoken instructions can be difficult for someone who processes information visually

IDPD is a call to remove these barriers. It reminds us that making our world more accessible, whether that means a physical ramp, a quiet workspace, or clear written instructions, is how we create fairness.

An accommodation isn’t a special favor. It’s about creating spaces where everyone can thrive, participate fully and contribute their unique strengths.

Building an Inclusive RRC Polytech

At RRC Polytech, we strive to create a place where all abilities and every way of thinking are valued. By embracing accessibility and neurodiversity, we make our college stronger and more innovative, and more welcoming for everyone.

We’ve made progress with accessible technologies, infrastructure, and accommodations – but our work continues. Today, we reaffirm our commitment to identifying and removing barriers and ensuring that everyone at the College has equitable opportunities to succeed.

This IDPD, let’s learn more, challenge assumptions, and build a community where every person can thrive.

AI Usage Acknowledgement

This post was jointly written by Gemini and Jay Scott, Neurodiversity Working Group Member at RRC Polytech.

Learn, Get Involved, and Stay Engaged

Wednesday, December 3

Immersive Storytelling & Disability Inclusion with Adam Nepon, Hosted by Abigail Adedokun
Location: E155, Manitou a bi Bii daziigae, EDC | 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Join Adam for an immersive storytelling experience exploring identity, belonging, non-linear learning and career journeys, psychological safety, and workplace culture – through humour, honesty, and real-life experiences.

About the Presenter

Adam Nepon is a storyteller, educator, and neurodivergent leader whose lived experience shapes his work in inclusion, accessibility, and culture-building. Born in Winnipeg and identifying as both Ashkenazi Jewish and Red River Métis, Adam grew up navigating the world without knowing he had a disability. The survival strategies he developed along the way—reading environments, adapting quickly, and finding his own learning path—became the foundation of his leadership and teaching style.

Today, Adam serves as Manager of Business Development – Health Transformation at RRC Polytech. He is known for creating psychologically safe spaces where humour, honesty, and immersive storytelling help people explore identity, belonging, and the power of non-linear educational and career journeys. His work invites audiences to view difference as strength and to recognize the stories that shape how we learn, lead, and connect.

Register for Immersive Storytelling & Disability Inclusion with Adam Nepon here

Film Screening – These Four Walls
Location: GM41 – Black Lecture Theatre, NDC | 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

In honour of International Day of Persons with Disabilities, People First of Manitoba and the Disability and Community Support Program invite members of the college community to a viewing of These Four Walls. 

These Four Walls invites you on an emotional journey deep into the heart of the disability movement in Manitoba, Canada. At its core is the remarkable story of David Weremy and his class action lawsuit against the Manitoba Development Centre (MDC), revealing shocking allegations of widespread abuse and neglect under government care.

The film traces the paths of survivors from the institution, alongside dedicated community advocates and families, as they confront the painful scars of abuse concealed behind its walls. Through intimate interviews and compelling storytelling, we witness the resilience and determination of survivors and their communities.

An inspiring tale of hope, community, and the power of breaking free from confinement, the film champions the boundless possibilities that await beyond ‘these four walls.’ Prepare to be moved, inspired, and forever changed by this powerful exploration of the human spirit.

More About the Film

This documentary is an important and historical record of the voices of survivors of institutionalization. It will be of interest to many self-advocates, educators, advocacy and disability groups, human rights activists, community groups and more.

Over the past year, These Four Walls has been in the film festival circuit. It was shown in 19 different film festivals in Canada. It has received the Best Manitoba Director award at the Gimli International Film Festival (GIFF), an Official Selection at the Regina International Film Festival and Awards, an Honorable Mention at the Montreal International Film Festival, and a Nominee at the Saskatchewan International Film Festival.

Register for Film Screening here

Thursday, December 4

Immersive Stories with Dani Puddicombe, Hosted by Desirae Mercer
Location: Prairie Lights, NDC | 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Be part of an immersive storytelling experience with Dani as she shares her journey through depression, anxiety, burnout, and returning to full-time work.

About the Presenter

Dani began her Red River College Polytechnic career in April 2005 (20 years ago!) in the Research Partnerships & Innovation (RPI) office after graduating from the Red River College Business Administration program. She is currently the Research Operations Manager, Finance for the Office of Applied Research Services (OARS) with RPI and believes her role is one that is to bring clarity and efficiency to research operations so that strategy, purpose and people align in pursuit of research excellence. She has a diploma in Business and Administrative Studies; a certificate in Dental Assisting; and a diploma in Office Skills & Technology.

Register for Immersive Stories with Dani Puddicombe here

Additional Resources

• RRC Polytech
  • Accessibility at RRC Polytech
  • Accessibility Services for Employees: Visit the Accessibility page on Staff Forum for more information on services and support available to employees.
  • Student Accessibility Services: To learn more about the services and support available to students, visit the Student Accessibility Services page.
  • Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services: To learn more about these services, visit the Deaf and Hard of Hearing page.
  • Neurodiversity Working Group: Visit the Neurodiversity Working Group blog post and Staff Forum page to learn more about the group’s mission, goals and how to get involved.
  • Accessibility Garden: Community of Practice: Join RRC Polytech members as they exchange accessibility practices and conversation. To learn more, visit the Community of Practice: Accessibility Garden page on Staff Forum.
• External Resources
  • Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion (CCDI) – International Day of Persons with Disabilities – Commemoration Guide and CCDI Webinar: Creating neuroinclusive and accessible workplaces
  • The Manitoba Accessibility Office’s Resources and Training
  • Province of Manitoba – IDPD Proclamation

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

December 1 is World AIDS Day – a time to come together, raise awareness about HIV/AIDS, and show support for people living with HIV. It’s also a day to reflect on progress and renew our commitment to prevention, treatment, and care for everyone.

This year’s theme is “Overcoming disruption, transforming the AIDS response.” It’s a powerful reminder and a call to action that ending AIDS by 2030 will require strong leadership, global cooperation, and approaches that uphold human rights.

On this day, while we celebrate progress – like better access to treatment and prevention – many challenges remain. AIDS is not over. Disruptions to life-saving services and increased risks for some communities show why this work matters. But there is hope. Around the world, people are stepping up with resilience and innovation to keep the HIV response moving forward.

Understanding HIV and AIDS

• Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) weakens the immune system by attacking white blood cells. This makes it easier for the body to get sick from infections, tuberculosis, and certain cancers.
• HIV is NOT spread by hugging, kissing, shaking hands, or sharing food.
  It spreads through body fluids: blood, breast milk, semen, and vaginal fluids. It can also pass from mother to child during pregnancy or birth.
• Treatment matters. HIV can be managed with antiretroviral therapy (ART). Without treatment, HIV can progress to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), which is the most advanced stage of infection.

Prevention Starts with Awareness

Knowing how HIV spreads and how to protect yourself is important. Here are some ways to reduce your risk:

• Use condoms during sex.
• Do not share needles or syringes; use harm reduction services if needed.
• Consider Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) if you are at higher risk of getting HIV. PrEP is an antiretroviral medication that helps prevent HIV.
• Get tested regularly for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Testing is simple and accessible – even at home.

If you test positive for HIV:

You are not alone. HIV is treatable. ART helps your immune system stay strong and allows you to live a healthy life. People who take ART and have no detectable virus cannot pass HIV to their sexual partners. Support is available, and we are here to help.

How You Can Get Involved

Join us in raising awareness and learning more:

World AIDS Day Information Booth

Hosted by the Gender and Sexual Diversity Group

• NDC Library Hallway | December 1, 2025 | 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
• Activities include:
  • Free HIV testing kits
  • Informational pamphlets and videos
  • World AIDS Day Quiz! Test your knowledge, learn something new, and enter for a chance to win a prize! The quiz closes on December 5, 2025 at 4:00 p.m.
  • Red ribbons

RRC Polytech Health Services

Health Services offers year-round support for staff and students:

• Consultations and referrals
• Sexual health education
• Registered nurses for care
• STI and HIV information
• Help connecting to community resources

Take action today: Learn the facts, get tested, and support those living with HIV.

Together, as a college community, we can make a difference and help end AIDS.