16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence

Monday, November 25 marks the beginning of the “16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence” in South Niagara. Today, Mayor Steele proudly raised the 'Wrapped in Courage' flag at City Hall, marking the start of this important initiative. At dusk, the City Hall cupola will shine purple in solidarity, with the purple flag flying high for the next 16 days.

The orange and purple colours draw attention to the significant but often hidden problem of gender-based violence (GBV) in our communities. Intimate partner violence, sexual harassment and assault, human trafficking and femicide, are experienced by women, girls and gender-diverse persons across all socio-economic groups. Men and boys are subject to gender-based violence, too.

Originating with the Women’s Global Leadership Initiative and supported by the United Nations, the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence Campaign has been adopted by organizations around the world.

Let us shine a light on GBV and stand with those impacted. Let us also support the several agencies in our region that provide counsel and material assistance to its survivors.

A few telephone numbers:

Emergency Help: 911

Birchway Niagara Domestic Violence Hotline: 905-356-5800

Niagara Sexual Assault Centre Crisis Support: 905-682-4584

National Human Trafficking Hotline: 1-833-900-1010

Fort Erie Native Friendship Centre: 905-871-8931

Fem’aide (Francophone Survivors) Ph/Text: 1-877-366-2433