#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
We will be boothing across campus next week - please feel free to drop by to say hello, spin our wheel, and collect swag and resources.
November 25
Location: SLC (across from Food Court)
Time: 11AM - 2PM
November 26
Location: Village 1 Lobby
Time: 1-3PM
November 27
Location: ENG 5/7
Time: 11AM - 2PM
November 27
Chill & Craft: A Relaxing Creative Escape – WUSA & SVPRO Collaborative Event
Take a break from the exam grind with Chill & Craft: A Relaxing Creative Escape! Join us, alongside WUSU, for an afternoon of crafting, doodling, and hands-on maker space activities designed to help you unwind, spark creativity, and recharge in a calming atmosphere. No experience needed—just bring yourself and enjoy the chill vibes!
Location: Lower Concourse Flex Space (WUSA Collab)
Time: 11AM - 6PM
Gender-based violence remains a critical local, national, and global issue.
The 16 Days of Activism is a worldwide effort uniting governments, organizations, and individuals to end violence against women and girls while showing support for those leading the fight for gender equality.
Awareness-raising is a key part of our efforts to confront GBV—here are some focal points based on the United Nations’ Declaration on the Elimination of Violence Against Women:
- Affirm that violence in any form, whether sexual, reproductive, psychological, emotional, economic, or otherwise, is a human rights violation. Women’s rights are human rights.
- Recognize that violence against women is rooted in historical inequalities in power between men and women, leading to systemic barriers and discrimination.
- Understand that certain groups, including Disabled women, Racialized women, Indigenous women, 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals, women in rural or remote areas, and women facing socio-economic hardship, are particularly vulnerable to violence.
How can you get involved?
- Join SVPRO initiatives during the 16 Days campaign. Visit our website for a full listing of events, workshops, and resources.
- Volunteer with campus groups or NGOs dedicated to ending gender-based violence.
- Engage in conversations about the realities of GBV. Whether shared openly or not, its prevalence and impact make it a daily issue for many.
- Show support online by joining the conversation using #16Days and #Purple4Prevention, raising awareness and standing in solidarity against GBV.
December 6 - Honouring Lives Lost during the Polytechnique Montreal Shooting & Survivors of Gender-Based Violence
This December 6, the University of Waterloo will observe the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women, marking the 35th anniversary of the tragedy at Polytechnique Montréal. On this day in 1989, 14 women lost their lives in an act of gender-based violence that shook Canada and continues to resonate as a solemn reminder of the urgent need to address and end violence against women.
In collaboration with campus partners, community organizations, and individuals across Canada, we honor the memory of these women, recognize the continued struggle against gender-based violence (GBV), and reaffirm our commitment to creating a safer, more equitable future for all. This milestone anniversary encourages us to reflect deeply on the impacts of GBV, confront social attitudes and behaviors that enable it, and support survivors as they navigate their healing journeys.
The National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women calls upon us not only to remember but also to act. UWaterloo remains steadfast in its dedication to educating, supporting, and empowering our community to stand against all forms of gender-based violence, discrimination, and inequality. This includes advancing initiatives across campus that foster safe spaces, provide resources for survivors, and promote gender equity.
How can you take part?
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Observe a moment of silence at noon on December 6 to honor the lives lost and reflect on the impact of gender-based violence in our communities.
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Engage in conversation about the reality and impact of gender-based violence on our campus and beyond, encouraging awareness, empathy, and accountability in our everyday interactions.
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Support local organizations and initiatives addressing GBV by donating, volunteering, or amplifying their message on social media to raise awareness.
As we mark this 35th anniversary, we renew our commitment to ending gender-based violence and fostering a culture of respect, safety, and dignity for everyone. We invite our campus community to remember, reflect, and take action in honor of the women lost at Polytechnique Montréal and in solidarity with all those affected by violence.
