February is a month rich in opportunities to champion vital causes and celebrate progress. From raising awareness on the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation to recognizing the achievements of women and girls in science, and highlighting sexual and reproductive health, each day invites us to foster education, solidarity, and action. We also honour the strength of communities addressing family violence, celebrate the diverse heritage of Nova Scotia, and advocate for social justice, kindness, and equity worldwide. This month, let’s come together to amplify these critical conversations, support impactful initiatives, and inspire meaningful change.International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation.
Recognizing International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation- 6th Feb 2025
Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) violates the rights of girls and women globally. This day calls for action to eliminate FGM by fostering education, advocacy, and support for survivors.
Links to websites or resources to reshare/ repost:
World Health Organization FGM Factsheet
Actions:
- Host or join a webinar to discuss the harmful impacts of FGM.
- Share educational resources to raise awareness on social media.
International Day of Women and Girls in Science 11th Feb 2025
Celebrating Women and Girls in Science
This day highlights the need for equal access and opportunities for women and girls in science to foster innovation and inclusivity in research and development.
Links to websites or resources to reshare/ repost:
Actions:
- Spotlight women scientists in your community or organization.
- Organize science workshops for girls in collaboration with local schools.
Sexual Reproduction Health Awareness Day- 12th Feb 2025
Celebrate sexual reproduction Health awareness day by:
Promoting access to sexual and reproductive health education and services is essential for empowering individuals to make informed choices about their bodies and futures.
Links to websites or resources to reshare/ repost:
Action Canada for Sexual Health and Rights
Actions:
- Share guides on sexual health awareness and available services.
- Collaborate with healthcare providers to host free health screenings.
Nova Scotia Family Violence Prevention Week February 10-16, 2025
Promoting Nova Scotia Family Violence Prevention Week:
This week raises awareness about family violence, its impact, and the importance of prevention through community support and action.
Links to websites or resources to reshare/ repost:
Family Violence Prevention in Nova Scotia
Transition House Association of Nova Scotia
Actions:
- Participate in local events and initiatives promoting family violence prevention.
- Share helplines and resources for those affected by family violence.
Heritage Day in Nova Scotia – Third Monday in February
Promoting Heritage Day in Nova Scotia
Heritage Day celebrates Nova Scotia’s rich cultural heritage, honouring contributions that shaped its history and community. The 2025 Honouree: is Nora Bernard a trailblazing Mi’kmaq activist who championed justice for First Nations communities. A survivor of the Canadian Indian Residential School system, she founded the Shubenacadie Indian Residential School Association in 1987 and spearheaded a groundbreaking class-action lawsuit for survivors. Her efforts inspired the largest class-action lawsuit in Canadian history, securing recognition and compensation for countless individuals.
Links to websites or resources to reshare/ repost:
Actions:
- Attend events celebrating the honouree of Heritage Day 2025.
- Share historical facts and stories about Nova Scotia’s cultural heritage.
World Day of Social Justice 20th Feb 2025
Promoting World Day of Social Justice:
This day focuses on advancing social justice, reducing inequalities, and ensuring access to equal opportunities for all.
Links to websites or resources to reshare/ repost:
United Nations Social Justice Resources
Actions:
- Share stories of social justice initiatives in your community.
- Host discussions on strategies to address inequality.
Pink Shirt Day Anti-bullying Day – 26th Feb 2025
Celebrating Pink Shirt Day Anti-bullying Day
Pink Shirt Day promotes kindness, respect, and inclusion to create a world free of bullying.
Links to websites or resources to reshare/ repost:
Actions:
- Wear pink and encourage others to do the same as a symbol of anti-bullying.
- Share anti-bullying resources and helplines.
Anniversary of Every Women’s Centre in Cape Breton – 28th Feb 2025
Help us by:
Celebrating the impactful work of Every Women’s Centre in supporting women and families in Cape Breton.
Links to websites or resources to reshare/ repost:
Actions:
- Highlight their achievements on social media and newsletters.
- Organize a donation drive to support their initiatives.
African Nova Scotia History Month February 2025
How You Can Get Involved:
This month recognizes the contributions of African Nova Scotians and celebrates their rich history and culture.
Links to websites or resources to reshare/ repost:
Actions:
- Attend events or workshops celebrating African Nova Scotian heritage.
- Share stories and achievements of African Nova Scotians.
One Billion Rising / #RiseForEmpathy 19th Feb 2025
How You Can Get Involved:
One Billion Rising is a global movement calling for an end to violence against women and girls through creative resistance and solidarity. This year’s theme, #RiseForEmpathy, emphasizes compassion and understanding as tools for creating a more just world.
Links to websites or resources to reshare/ repost:
One Billion Rising Official Website
United Nations Women Resources
Actions:
- Share personal or community stories of empathy on social media using #RiseForEmpathy.
- Organize a local event, such as a dance or rally, to show solidarity and raise awareness.
One Billion Rising / Eswatini 2025 Rising Festival 15th Feb 2025
How You Can Get Involved:
The Eswatini 2025 Rising Festival is a vibrant part of the global One Billion Rising campaign, celebrating the power of art, music, and community to advocate for justice and equality for women and girls.
Links to websites or resources to reshare/ repost:
One Billion Rising Eswatini Campaign
Eswatini Women’s Rights Resources
Actions:
- Share highlights of the Eswatini Festival through social media platforms to amplify the movement.
- Host a watch party or online discussion to connect with the Eswatini Rising Festival and discuss its impact.