National Defence observes the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women

November 25, 2021 - Defence Stories

On November 25th, the Defence Team will mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women (you are now leaving the Government of Canada website). The commemorative day, which officially launches the 16 Days of Activism against Gender Based Violence raises awareness to an ongoing human rights issue as many women around the world are still subject to gender-based violence daily.

Through the years, government officials and international leaders have led the charge to curb violence against women and girls. Unfortunately, however, it is still all too common. Violence against women continues to be a widespread and persistent human rights violation.

• 1 in 3 women and girls experience physical or sexual violence in their lifetime, most frequently by an intimate partner.
• Calls to helplines have increased five-fold in some countries over the past 5 years.
• Fewer than 40 per cent of the women who experience violence seek help of any sort.
• Globally, violence against women disproportionately affects low- and lower-middle-income countries and regions

Listening, Learning, and Taking Action: What the Defence Team is doing

As was recently shared by CPCC leadership, events of the past year have been troubling, disillusioning and demoralizing. They have also ignited crucial conversations about our conduct and culture and shone a light on a wide range of issues and challenges. We have an unprecedented opportunity to renew our institution, and we must work together to seize it.

Hearing from you is an important part of that, and a listening session is planned at Carling Campus on December 3. Details on how Defence Team members can participate will be made available shortly

Minister Anand shared in her recent message that her top priority is to make sure that everyone in the Defence Team feels safe and protected. The Defence Team stands with her in saying that everyone deserves a workplace that is healthy, safe, and inclusive regardless of gender, sexual or gender identity, disability, race, or religious beliefs.

Show your support during the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence

You can show your support during the 16 Days campaign by joining public servants across Canada in these initiatives:

Nov 25 - Dec 10

Use the 16 Days MS Teams background during your calls

November 25

Civilians, wear purple to raise awareness about GBV and its impacts

November 26

Register for the event Making it our Business to Support Employees Dealing with Domestic Violence

December 6

Civilians, wear a white ribbon to honour the victims of the 1989 Polytechnique Montréal tragedy

December 10

Stand with those who seek and work towards equality, safety, freedom, and justice for all and visit the UN’s website (you are now leaving the Government of Canada website) to learn more about World Human Rights Day

CAF members

CAF members may show their support while on duty and wearing civilian clothing within the restrictions of CFSG (O-G) Standing Orders Chapter 3. CAF members are reminded that they shall be in uniform if they are on duty and present in unit lines. If CAF members are working from home, and if participating in an official meeting/office call and will be visible during that call the same standard of civilian dress should be adhered. Finally, CAF members are reminded that if they are posting to social media their posts must be respectful and not contravene policies, directives or statements made by the CAF or the Government of Canada.

Related links

• International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women (you are now leaving the Government of Canada website)
• 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence