International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women

The International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women is observed globally to commemorate the lives of the Mirabal sisters, who were murdered in 1960 in an act of gender-based violence (GBV). 

While Canada has protections in place to uphold the right to live free from violence, women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ individuals continue to experience violence based on gender, gender identity, gender expression, and perceived gender. 

This day also marks the beginning of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, a global campaign to raise awareness, highlight the seriousness and prevalence of GBV, and advocate for the elimination of all forms of abuse and violence.