The 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence

What are the 16 Days?

The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Violence was first launched by activists at the inaugural Women's Global Leadership Institute in 1991. Since then, it has become an annual international campaign that begins on November 25 (International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women), and continues until December 10 (World Human Rights Day).

The 16 Days are an occasion to come together as Canadians, to act against gender-based violence and to be allies to women, girls, LGBTQ2+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, two-spirited) people, and people of all genders. We also observe the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women, to honour the memory of the women we lost in the tragic mass shooting at Polytechnique Montreal on December 6, 1989.

What is gender-based violence?

Gender-based violence is violence that is committed against someone based on their gender, gender identity, gender expression or perceived gender.

If you wish to learn more about who gender-based violence affects, click here.

Gender-based violence during the COVID-19 pandemic

With the arrival of the Covid-19 pandemic, gender-based violence has increased and one in 10 women reported being very or extremely concerned about the possibility of violence in the home. Now, more than ever, collective action is required and we need to work together against this issue. We all have a role to play in creating safe homes, schools, workplaces and communities.

Ways to get involved

If you wish to get involved or to learn more about the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, you can consult this website.

Let us all work together to end Gender-Based Violence!