International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women is the kickoff for 16 Days of Activism aiming to eliminate Gender-Based Violence against women and girls. This global initiative runs alongside the United Nation’s “UNITE by 2030 to End Violence against Women” Campaign. The theme for this year’s campaign is “UNITE! Activism to end violence against women and girls.” Additional details on the theme for this year can be found here.
The primary goals of the 2022 UNITE campaign include: encouraging activism to prevent violence against women, calling for increased global support and funding for organizations aimed at reducing gender based violence, and promoting the leadership of women and girls in policy and desicion-making roles.
According to the UN, 1 in 3 women and girls experience physical or sexual violence in their lifetime and fewer than 40% women who experience violence seek help. Since the start of the pandemic, 45% of women stated that they, or a woman they know, have experienced some form of violence. These numbers are startling and accentuate the need for preventative action and aid for survivors.
The WHRC stands in solidarity with women and girls worldwide as they continue to fight against #genderbasedviolence.
Take a look at the links below to learn more about this initiative, and violence against women and girls.
Women's Health Blog: Violence Against Women Esacalates As We Flatten the Curve for the COVID-19 Pandemic
Women's Health Inerrupted Podcast: How Does Intimate Partner Violence Impact Women's Brain Health? (Season 1, Episode 5)
Women's Health Inerrupted Podcast: What Does Justice Mean for Women who Seek Reparations? (Field Trip Mini Series, Episode 1)
Take a look at resources available to help women and girls experiencing violence.
UN Women's List of Country Help Lines
Native Women’s Association of Canada (NWAC) Community Resource Guide
Canadian Women’s Foundation: Resources and Tools
Government of Canada: Gender-Based Violence