#16DaysUW
Gender-based violence in a local, national, and global issue.
16 Days is used as an organizing strategy by governments, organizations, communities, and individuals around the globe call for the prevention and elimination of violence against women and girls and show support and solidarity with women’s rights activists and mobilizers advancing gender equity.
Awareness-raising is central to our work in addressing gender-based violence – here are some starting points, drawing from the United Nation’s Declaration on the Elimination of Violence Against Women.
Each year, SVPRO and the University of Waterloo join forces with campus partners, Kitchener-Waterloo organizations, various government levels, and communities worldwide to participate in the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. This year’s theme, “Come Together, Act Now,” emphasizes the importance of involving everyone in Canada, particularly men and boys, in changing social norms, attitudes, and behaviors that contribute to gender-based violence. The campaign reminds us that we each have a role in ending gender-based violence (GBV) through our everyday actions and commitments.
The Sexual Violence Prevention and Response Office (SVPRO) is honoring the 16 Days of Activism, an annual international campaign beginning on November 25, International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, and concluding on December 10, Human Rights Day. SVPRO will host events and initiatives across campus to stand together in support of those affected by GBV. We hope to see you at these activities, demonstrating solidarity and sharing our commitment to change.
Founded in 1991, this campaign calls for accountability and action in preventing violence against women, girls, and 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals. International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1999 and marked each year on November 25 to commemorate the Mirabal sisters of the Dominican Republic, who were assassinated in 1960 for their activism. Their legacy lives on, urging a global call to end GBV. Human Rights Day, on December 10, marks the anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, a milestone document translated into over 500 languages, holding the Guinness World Record as the most translated document globally. In Canada, December 6 is also observed as the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women, honoring the women lost in the tragic Polytechnique Montréal shooting in 1989.
16 Days Events
CALM IN COM: CRAFT & CONNECT - KEYCHAIN AND BRACELET MAKING *NEW*
November 26
11AM - 1PM
Commissary Building, SVPRO
December 4
1 - 3 PM
Commissary Building, SVPRO
About: Introducing Calm in the Commissary: Keychain and Bracelet Making! SVPRO is pleased to launch a stress-relieving, drop-in crafting space where students can create their own keychain or bracelet. Studies have found that hands-on creative activities can help lower stress and improve mood, making crafting a simple and enjoyable way to recharge. This creative-focused space aims to support well-being, self-care, and connection. Snacks and SVPRO swag and resources will be offered. No crafting experience or registration required - all materials will be provided.
SEXUAL VIOLENCE ON CAMPUS: A PRIMER
November 30
1 - 2PM
Register here
About: A virtual workshop that explores the campus sexual violence landscape in Canada. We confront the issue by examining: the history of universities and the academy in Canada, including its exclusion of women and other marginal groups; the expansion of universities in the 1960s and the rise of the neoliberal state in the 1970s; the legal and policy frameworks that currently govern the issue in and across Canada; and the lived experiences and prevalence of sexual violence in campus settings. We will also be sharing information about the Sexual Violence Prevention and Response Office (SVPRO). The workshop will be led by Ravita Surajbali, Evaluation Specialist.
SVPRO BOOTH
December 1
11AM - 3PM
SLC
About: Chat with SVPRO, collect resources and SWAG, and support building a consent culture on campus.
TRAUMA-INFORMED YOGA FOR STUDENTS
December 9 - Architecture Campus, Cambridge
1 - 1:45PM
Register here
About: A gentle, trauma-informed 45-minute Hatha yoga class welcoming all levels, with an emphasis on mindful movement, breath, choice, and creating a safe, supportive space to connect with yourself. You can expect a restorative, slower-paced yoga class. Led by Case Manager and certified Yoga Instructor, Taneah Ugwuegbula.
If you have an organized 16 Days event you'd like us to share on our website, please fill out this form
