York University will once again participate in the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence from Nov. 25 to Dec. 10. This international campaign, beginning on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and concluding on Human Rights Day, calls for collective action to address gendered violence and support survivors.
At York, this year’s theme, “Resistance Through Rest,” underscores the power of self-care and healing as forms of resistance. The Centre for Sexual Violence Response, Support & Education, together with campus partners, will host a series of workshops, talks and community gatherings designed to inspire reflection, self-compassion and advocacy. These events include sessions on restorative practices, peer support discussions, and skill-building workshops aimed at empowering individuals to support survivors and challenge harmful behaviours.
Participants are invited to join these initiatives, beginning by wearing purple on Nov. 25 to raise awareness. White ribbons will be available at the Centre for Sexual Violence Response, Support & Education in memory of the 14 women who lost their lives in the École Polytechnique tragedy on Dec. 6, 1989. By engaging in these activities, the York community will have the opportunity to honour victims of gender-based violence, including missing and murdered Indigenous women, as well as members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.
The Centre for Sexual Violence Response, Support & Education provides confidential support to any York community member impacted by sexual violence, with no requirement to disclose personal details to access help. The centre’s mission is to foster a safe and compassionate space where survivors feel supported and community members are educated on preventing violence.
“The 16 Days is a time to unite, to support survivors and to challenge the attitudes that perpetuate gender-based violence,” says Joanie Cameron Pritchett, director, Centre for Sexual Violence Response, Support & Education. Visit the centre’s website to learn more, register for events and access community resources.
With files from Mary Dytyniak