Part 1:Talking Action

This year the Diversity Action Group is taking a stand against gender-based violence by launching a 16-day digital campaign in observation of the international 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign which runs from November 25th, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women through until December 10th which is Human Rights Day. Digital content will be posted everyday to engage the Royal Roads University community in a conversation about the issues surrounding gender-based violence, what it means and who it involves.

There are several campaigns running during this time including the Rose Campaign, which is a national advocacy campaign started 22 years ago by the YWCA to end violence against women and girls. The Campaign takes its name from the original Rose button, to commemorate 14 young women who were murdered at l’Ecole Polytechnique, by calling for action on violence against women and promoting strategies to stop violence in our communities.

Another important campaign is the White Ribbon, which is a global movement of men and boys working to end male violence against women and girls. It was formed in London, Ontario, by a group of pro-feminist men in November 1991. The White Ribbon Campaign was also in response to the École Polytechnique massacre of female students. The Campaign raises awareness about the prevalence of male violence against women, with the ribbon symbolizing "the idea of men giving up their arms." Active in over 60 countries, the movement seeks to promote healthy relationships, gender equity, and a compassionate vision of masculinity.

These issues are in the spotlight even more now because of recent allegations of sexual abuse against powerful men in the news, birthing the #MeToo Campaign. Women are coming forward and speaking out like they never did before. This is in part due to movements like these and people like us, taking a stand against gender-based violence. We will be speaking out on this platform and hosting an event on-campus on December 6th, from 12-1 pm in the main floor LIC lounge. Everyone is urged to get involved and attend.

DAG's promise is to raise awareness, inform and educate the Royal Roads University community, highlighting issues and creating opportunities to explore these. We've started the conversation now. Please stay tuned...