Standing Against Violence Together: What YOU can do
Every year, from November 25 (International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women) to December 10 (Human Rights Day), the world observes the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence (GBV). This global campaign, first led by the United Nations, aims to raise awareness and take action toward eliminating all forms of gender-based violence. This period serves as a critical moment to educate and take action while committing to meaningful change. This can look different for different people. Over the course of this month, we will look at how people across sectors, jobs, and identities can support the elimination of gender-based violence. This week, we are focusing on providing suggestions for the general public to join the fight against GBV whether or not you consider yourself to be an expert on this issue.
Take the Time to Learn and Listen to Survivors Voices
- Attend an event for Woman Abuse Awareness Month in your community
- Read work written by survivors
- Read work about how we can all engage in anti-violence work such as: https://www.neighboursfriendsandfamilies.ca/about/index.html
- Take a training course on supporting survivors or intervening in violence
- Take time to listen to the voices of Indigenous survivors and familiarize yourself with the calls to action in the Truth and Reconciliation Report and the National Inquiry
- Learn about Bystander Intervention
Advocate for Legal Reform
- Writing to your Member of Parliament (MP) or Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP) is a powerful and important mode for change
- Currently in Canada there have been pushes to review mandatory charging policies and declare IPV an epidemic (Bill 173)
Engage with Local Support Services
- Learn About Local Resources for Survivors: Explore the VAW services available in your community. This can include shelters, counseling services, and hotlines for survivors. By being informed, you can refer others in need and understand the resources required to combat violence locally
Start Conversations in Everyday Spaces
- Bring up Gender-Based Violence in Everyday Discussions: Whether at your next book club meeting or dinner party, initiating conversations about violence against women can shift perspectives and open up important dialogues
- Normalize these discussions to break the stigma that often silences survivors
- Call in those perpetrating harm through daily sexism such as sexist jokes, comments, etc.
Support Local Organizations doing anti-violence work
Many GBV organizations lack adequate and sustainable core funding to deliver their programs and services. They rely on fundraising initiatives to help ensure they can continue to do important and critical work. Your donation to these organizations can really help.
Our work is rooted in the belief that together we can make a difference. Whether through offering support or raising awareness, every action matters. This Woman Abuse Prevention Month let’s join forces as a community and take a stand for the women who need us. Let’s commit to creating a future where every woman is safe, supported, and empowered to live a life free from abuse.
Stand with Luke’s Place – Together we are stronger!
For more information on how to support women navigating the family law system or to donate to our cause, visit LukesPlace.ca.
Together Counts! Donate Today!
Related blogs:
Woman Abuse Prevention Month – Together Counts!
