16 Days of Action Against Violence Against Women: A Canadian Perspective

Strategic Insights -

The International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women on November 25 marks the beginning of 16 days of action to raise awareness about violence against women as a human rights issue. This year's event coincides with the 20th anniversary of the Montreal Massacre, a tragedy that resulted in the deaths of 14 women. The need for action is underscored by dismal statistics in Canada, where in 2008, 146 female victims of homicide were recorded, with 45 murdered by their spouse or ex-spouse. The Highway of Tears in British Columbia, where women have gone missing and are presumed dead, is a stark reminder of the pervasive issue of violence against women, particularly among aboriginal women.

Key Takeaways:

  • The International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women was marked by the United Nations in 1999 and this year marks its 10th anniversary.
  • The 16 days of action, from November 25 to December 10, aim to draw attention to violence against women as a human rights issue.
  • In Canada, the Montreal Massacre on December 6, 1989, resulted in the deaths of 14 women and serves as a reminder of the urgency of addressing violence against women.
  • Statistics Canada reported 146 female victims of homicide in 2008, with 45 murdered by their spouse or ex-spouse.
  • The Highway of Tears in British Columbia is a symbol of the issue of missing and murdered aboriginal women, with an estimated 520 such cases over the last 20 years.
  • Manitoba is the only province taking action to address the issue of missing and murdered aboriginal women, with a special task force formed to solve cases.
  • Systemic racism and indifference to the issue of violence against women are cited as reasons for the lack of action at the federal level.
  • Raising public awareness and education are essential in addressing the inequalities and changing societal attitudes toward violence against women.
  • The author's promise to raise her son with a feminist consciousness is a powerful message for promoting equality and challenging systemic issues.

Statistics:

  • In 2008, there were 146 female victims of homicide in Canada. (Statistics Canada)
  • 45 of these women were murdered by their spouse or ex-spouse. (Statistics Canada)
  • An estimated 520 aboriginal women have been murdered or reported missing over the last 20 years. (Beverley Jacobs, Native Women's Association of Canada)
  • 75 aboriginal women are still missing in Manitoba, prompting a special task force to investigate their cases.

Sources:

  • United Nations (1999)
  • Statistics Canada
  • Beverley Jacobs, Native Women's Association of Canada
  • Judith Sainsbury (author)