A close up of someone clasping their hands and twisting a ring on their finger.

Women's Issue Spotlight: It's time to prevent gender-based violence

News

We are approaching a time of year when many dates of significance remind us of the importance of highlighting and working towards the elimination of gender-based violence. November 25 is the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, which is a day that also kicks off 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence. Here in Canada, December 6 marks the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence against Women, the anniversary of the murder of 14 young women at Polytechnique Montréal.

There are many important reasons to shine a light on the impacts of gender-based violence and to focus on how we can pave the way to a safer and more inclusive society. We can prevent and end gender-based violence.

Great organizations in Alberta, Canada and beyond our borders have and continue to do great research and work on the topic of gender-based violence. For this month’s spotlight, we are sharing some information and staggering statistics on gender-based violence from a few organizations doing work to advocate on issues related to gender-based violence. We hope you’ll take some time to read.

  1. “New domestic violence shelter data [...] reveals a range of indicators showing domestic violence in Alberta is trending up. Calls for help to Alberta Council of Women’s Shelter (ACWS) members hit a ten year high with over 59,000 calls answered by domestic abuse shelters.” - Report Reveals Ten Year Highs for Domestic Violence Indicators in Alberta, Alberta Council of Women’s Shelters
  2. 5 common myths about gender-based violence – United Way, Alberta Capital Region
  3. Domestic violence can carry over into the workplace, threatening women’s ability to maintain economic independence. More than half (53%) of study respondents who experienced domestic violence said that at least one type of abusive act happened at or near their workplace. Almost 40% of those who had experienced domestic abuse said it made it difficult for them to get to work, and 8.5% said that they lost their jobs because of it. - The Facts about Gender-Based Violence, Canadian Women's Foundation  
  4. “While gender-based violence can happen to anyone, anywhere, some women and girls are particularly vulnerable - for instance, young girls and older women, women who identify as lesbian, bisexual, transgender or intersex, migrants and refugees, indigenous women and ethnic minorities, or women and girls living with HIV and disabilities, and those living through humanitarian crises.” - United Nations

If you or someone you know is experiencing gender-based violence or needs help, dial 2-1-1 to connect with resources and support services available in your community. 211 Alberta is a confidential helpline available 24/7 that can provide access to crisis intervention, counseling, safe shelters, legal assistance and more.