Every year, from November 25 to December 10, the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign unites individuals and organizations worldwide to raise awareness about gender-based violence and inspire action to end it.

This global movement began in 1991 to address violence against women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ individuals, advocating for a world where human rights are upheld for all.

November 25 marks the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, established by the United Nations to honour the Mirabal sisters from the Dominican Republic, who were assassinated in 1960 for opposing dictatorship. Their story symbolizes resistance and highlights the need to eliminate gender-based violence.

The campaign concludes on December 10, Human Rights Day, commemorating the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948 — a cornerstone document asserting the fundamental rights and freedoms of every individual.

In Canada, we also observe December 6 as the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women. This day honours the memory of 14 young women murdered in the 1989 mass shooting at Polytechnique Montréal. This tragic event, driven by misogyny, led to national conversations about gender equality, violence, and gun control.

Why this matters:

- Gender-based violence remains one of the most pervasive human rights violations worldwide.

- Violence disproportionately affects women, girls, and marginalized groups, including 2SLGBTQI+ individuals.

What can you do?

-Speak out against all forms of violence.

-Advocate for policies that protect and empower survivors.

-Support organizations working to end gender-based violence.

❤️ At CUIAS Immigrant Services, we stand in solidarity with this campaign, reaffirming our commitment to fostering safe, inclusive, and supportive communities. Let’s work together to create a future free from violence.