Today marks the first day of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence. Especially during a pandemic, where mental and physical abuse has increased against women, girls, LGBTQ2+, and gender diverse individuals. It’s also harder for these individuals to access the organizations and services they need.

Gender-based violence is an issue occurring all around the globe. During the next 10 days, collectively we have the opportunity to spread awareness, show our support, speak up, and pay tribute to all those who have lost their lives due to gender-based violence. Now more than ever, we must stand side-by-side and ensure that everyone is able to live and work in a safe environment free of violence. It is also important to take this time to remember all the missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls. We must continue to support all Indigenous women and their families to help end violence.

The 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence is an international campaign that takes place every year. On December 6, we honour all the victims of the anti-feminist attack at the Polytechnique Montreal. The last day of the campaign is December 10, the World Human Rights Day, where we celebrate the commemoration of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. It ensures the rights of anyone anywhere despite their nationality, gender, religion, or any other status.

To show your support we encourage you to:

  • Learn more about gender-based violence and how you can become an ally at https://cfc-swc.gc.ca/violence/knowledge-connaissance/index-en.html
  • Review 16 ways you can take action by visiting https://bit.ly/3l8WBg4
  • Participate in the CLC’s Done Waiting campaign, which is demanding a National Action Plan on Violence Against Women – http://www.donewaiting.ca/emailmp_harassment
  • Have a moment of silence at 11:00 a.m. on December 6, to honour the 14 women who lost their lives at Polytechnique Montréal. SEIU Healthcare will be participating in a vigil hosted by the Ontario Federation of Labour. Keep an eye on your email and our social media for more details in the coming days.