Calgarians Unite to End Gender-Based Violence
The city of Calgary has taken a stand against gender-based violence as citizens join in a powerful campaign to raise awareness and promote change. This movement, known as the “16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence,” aims to shed light on the prevalence of violence against women and girls and to call for action to end it.
The campaign, which runs from November 25th to December 10th, is a global initiative that has been observed for over 25 years. It was first launched by the Center for Women’s Global Leadership at Rutgers University and has since been adopted by organizations and individuals around the world.
In Calgary, the campaign is being led by the YWCA, a non-profit organization that works to empower women and promote equality. The YWCA has partnered with various community organizations, including the Calgary Police Service and the Calgary Domestic Violence Collective, to spread the message and engage the public in meaningful discussions.
One of the key events of the campaign is the “Shine a Light” vigil, which took place on November 25th, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. The vigil, held at Olympic Plaza, brought together survivors, advocates, and community members to honor those who have been affected by gender-based violence and to show support for those who are still struggling.
In addition to the vigil, the YWCA has organized a series of workshops and events throughout the 16 days, covering topics such as healthy relationships, consent, and bystander intervention. These events aim to educate and empower individuals to recognize and address gender-based violence in their communities.
According to the YWCA, gender-based violence is a pervasive issue in Calgary, with one in three women experiencing some form of violence in their lifetime. This includes physical, sexual, emotional, and financial abuse. The organization also notes that marginalized communities, such as Indigenous women and girls, are disproportionately affected by this type of violence.
The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence is an important reminder that this issue is not limited to a certain time or place, but rather a global problem that requires collective action. As Calgarians come together to raise their voices and demand change, it is clear that the city is committed to creating a safer and more equitable society for all.
To learn more about the campaign and how you can get involved, visit the YWCA’s website or follow the hashtag #16DaysYYC on social media. Let us all join in this movement to end gender-based violence and create a better future for generations to come.
