Gender-based violence is a global epidemic that transcends boundaries, cultures, and socio-economic strata. To combat this deeply rooted issue and promote gender equality, the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign, culminating on Human Rights Day, sheds light on the importance of eradicating violence against women and upholding human rights for all. This annual campaign serves as a rallying point for individuals, communities, and nations to stand together against such injustices. It is not surprising that this month’s newsletter and social media posts will focus on the inter-connectedness of Gender Equality and Human Rights starting with The 16 Days of Activism and Human Rights Day. Gender-based violence is not just a women’s issue; it’s a societal concern that impinges upon the dignity and rights of everyone. When we stand against gender-based violence, we reaffirm our commitment to fundamental human rights principles – the right to live free from violence, discrimination, and oppression.
Remembrance Day – November 11, 2023
Remembrance Day in Canada, also known as Armistice Day globally honours the moment when hostilities on the Western Front ceased, with the signing of the Armistice between Allies of World War I and Germany. It is a day of national commemoration for the more than 118,000 Canadians who have died in military service. Nova Scotia created legislation, Remembrance Day Act (PDF), to ensure we are able to pay tribute to “the many who have and those who do stand ready to sacrifice themselves to protect our rights and freedoms”.
Read about the Key Features of the Remembrance Day Act here:
Trans Day of Remembrance – November 20, 2023
TDOR was started in 1999 by American advocate Gwendolyn Ann Smith as a vigil to honor the memory of Rita Hester, a transgender woman who was killed in 1998. Transgender Day of Remembrance (TDOR) is an annual observance on November 20 that honors the memory of the transgender people whose lives were lost in acts of anti-transgender violence.
International Child Day – November 20, 2023
National Child Day is celebrated in Canada on November 20 in recognition of our country’s commitment to upholding the rights of children and two historic events: the 1959 signing of the UN Declaration of the Rights of the Child and the adoption of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child in 1989.
Second Story Women’s Centre Anniversary – November 15, 2023
Our mission at Second Story Women’s Centre is to support women and gender-oppressed people, provide safe spaces, and advocate for social change. Our Vision: Gender equity and safe, healthy relationships on the South Shore.
Be updated on their upcoming activities through their social media page.
Tri-County Women’s Centre Anniversary – November 23, 2023
As a woman-centered, intersectional feminist association, they believe that by working at the individual and collective levels they can create the necessary changes that will offer women and girls a sense of empowerment, choice and greater control over their lives. TCWC (Tri-County Women’s Centre) embraces an intersectional feminist philosophy central to our work together.
National Addictions Awareness Week – November 19-25
National Addictions Awareness Week (NAAW) highlights ways to address harms related to alcohol and other drugs. It provides an opportunity for people in Canada to learn more about prevention, talk about treatment and recovery, and share solutions.
16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence – November 25-December 10, 2023
The 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence is an annual international campaign that kicks off on 25 November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, and runs until 10 December, Human Rights Day. Standing Together is the Government of Nova Scotia’s commitment to work with community organizations, groups and experts to build an action plan to disrupt harmful cycles of domestic violence. Learn more about the history here.