16 Days of Activism
Every year, from November 25 (International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women) to December 10 (World Human Rights Day), Canadians observe the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. It is an opportunity to come together to call out, speak up and renew our commitment to end gender-based violence. This past Thursday evening I joined many partners and advocates at a ceremony outside of the Heritage building at City Hall to proclaim 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence in the City of Ottawa.
As City Council’s Women and Gender Equity Liaison, I am pleased to be a part of the ongoing efforts to raise awareness and call for real change in the many ways we respond to gender-based violence. This past year in particular we have seen the impact that the pandemic has had on society specifically women, girls, and gender diverse people. We must raise awareness within City Council and the public about the most urgent priorities to help alleviate the impact of COVID-19 on women and gender diverse people in the city. We need to foster cross-sectoral alliances and partnerships, encourage new forms of community leadership, and strengthen collective resilience.
Every sector and level of government, including the City, needs to focus on how we can collectively come up with innovative solutions to address the issues facing women, girls, and gender diverse people. In my role as the Council Liaison on Women and Gender Equity I will continue to work with the city to build a dialogue with our community partners and find ways of bringing equity to every opportunity.
The statistics are clear. We need more action. In 2018, 44% of women reported experiencing some form of psychological, physical, or sexual violence by an intimate partner in their lifetimes. More than 4 in 10 women have experienced some form of intimate partner violence (IPV) in their lifetimes. (Statistic Canada) (More statistics and FAQs)
I want to extend my gratitude to the local chapter of Grandmothers Advocacy Network (GRAN) who have annually spearheaded the 16 Day Campaign in Ottawa and their continued advocacy.
I also want to thank Hydro Ottawa, and Bryce Conrad in particular, for their support in raising awareness through sponsoring the lighting of the Heritage Building at City Hall in purple for the duration of the 16 days. Making it possible for us to join cities around the country who are lighting up important public spaces as a symbol of their commitment to ending gender-based violence.
The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign challenges us to share ways to join the conversation and be part of the solution to end gender-based violence. To learn more about what you can do please visit the Government of Canada web site.
