Message from the Defence Champion for Women, Peace and Security regarding 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence
November 25, 2022 - Defence Stories
Team,
As the Defence Champion for Women, Peace and Security, I want to take this opportunity to mark the beginning of The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence, an annual international campaign that begins on November 25, which is the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women (you are now leaving the Government of Canada website), and runs until December 10, which is Human Rights Day (you are now leaving the Government of Canada website).
In Canada, we also observe the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women, to remember the women who were murdered during the mass shooting at Polytechnique Montréal on December 6, 1989. As Canadians, and as a Defence Team, it’s important we take this time to affirm our commitment to end the violence that led to this tragedy.
Every day, many Canadians face violence because of their gender, gender expression, gender identity or perceived gender. Gender-based violence is a violation of human rights and can take many forms, including cyber, physical, sexual, societal, psychological, emotional, and economic. Discrimination and harassment – including in the workplace – can also be forms of gender-based violence.
While gender-based violence affects people of all genders, ages, religions, cultures, ethnicities, geographic locations, and socio-economic backgrounds, populations more at risk include women, young women and girls, Indigenous Peoples, 2SLGBTQ2I+ and gender-diverse people, women living in Northern, rural, and remote communities, and women living with disabilities.
During the pandemic, there have been reports from police services, shelters, and local organizations of an increase in calls related to gender-based violence across Canada. The negative effects are far-reaching, and can create long-lasting and negative health, social and economic consequences that span generations. This holds us all back.
Looking abroad, the deteriorating global security environment has also highlighted the need for a reinvigorated approach to ending violence against women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ individuals in conflict zones.
To end gender-based violence, we all need to do our part, by implementing and supporting initiatives, speaking up against harmful behaviours, and committing to continuous learning. As a Defence Team, we also owe it to each other to improve our workplace culture and embrace the recommendations made by external review authorities.
If you or anyone you know has experienced gender-based violence, know that you are not alone. The Canadian Armed Forces and the Department of National Defence offer many services that can provide immediate care, support, or medical assistance. Support is also available through many civilian service providers. Please reach out if you feel comfortable doing so. Your wellbeing is the top priority.
When it comes to ending gender-based violence, all our contributions make a difference, at work and in our personal lives. Team, I encourage you to take the time to learn more, take action, and support one another.
MGen Lise Bourgon
Acting Commander, Military Personnel Command