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 #NoExcuse UNiTE to End Violence Against Women, because every 10 minutes a woman is killed. The crisis of gender-based violence is urgent globally, nationally, and right here at home.

How can you raise awareness and help eliminate gender-based violence?

Aligning with the Government of Canada’s theme for 2024, Come Together, Act Now, it is critical that everyone – including men and boys – come together to change societal norms, attitudes and behaviours that contribute to GBV. It is a call to learn and recognize the signs and take action to seek support for loved ones or ourselves.

• Learn more about gender-based violence
• Find out about 16 ways you can help end gender-based violence
• Check out It’s Not Just, a youth awareness campaign to end gender-based violence
• Attend an event in your community to support victims and survivors of gender-based violence. More details about RRC Polytech’s Dec 6 Vigil, below.
• Wear a white ribbon to signify your commitment to eliminating gender-based violence
  
• Become an ally by adopting 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 gender-based violence. 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 gender-based violence

Dec 6 Vigil: National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women

RRC Polytech is hosting a vigil on Friday, December 6, 2024. 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.

• Date and Time: Friday, December 6, 2024, from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m.
• Location: The Cave, Notre Dame Campus (Mall Level, Building E)
• Speakers and Guest:
  • Grandmother Janice, Grandmother-in-Residence, RRC Polytech
  • Fred Meier, CEO and President, RRC Polytech
  • Maria Mendes, Director, Campus Renewal and Environmental Stewardship, RRC Polytech (emcee and host)
  • Angela Grace Felipe, President, 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. Coffee and tea will be provided.