16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence: How You Can Support Survivors in Victoria

What Are the 16 Days of Activism?

From November 25 to December 10, the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence unite communities worldwide to raise awareness, promote prevention, and take collective action to end gender-based violence.

At the Victoria Sexual Assault Centre (VSAC), these days reflect our ongoing commitment to supporting survivors, providing trauma-informed education, fostering safe spaces, and advocating for systemic change.

Why Each Day Matters

The dates of the campaign are purposeful, highlighting various aspects of gender-based violence and human rights:

• November 25 – International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women: Launches the campaign and emphasizes prevention and support for survivors.

• November 29 – Women Human Rights Defenders Day: Honors those advocating for justice and safety, often at personal risk.

• December 1 – World AIDS Day: Draws attention to intersections of gender, health, and stigma.

• December 3 – International Day of Persons with Disabilities: Recognizes higher risks of violence for people with disabilities and the need for inclusive support.

• December 6 – National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women (Canada): Commemorates the 14 women killed at École Polytechnique Montréal and calls for systemic change.

• December 10 – International Human Rights Day: Affirms safety, dignity, and autonomy as fundamental rights for all.

Understanding the meaning behind each day helps connect the global movement to the local work VSAC carries out every day in Victoria.

How VSAC Supports Survivors During the 16 Days and Beyond

The 16 Days are a reminder of the ongoing work in our community:

• Counselling and crisis support: Immediate and compassionate assistance for survivors.

• Education and prevention: Youth programs on healthy relationships, consent, and boundaries.

• Community engagement: Awareness campaigns, reducing stigma, and fostering safe spaces.

• Advocacy and empowerment: Amplifying survivors’ voices and promoting inclusive policies.

Every act of support—whether donating, volunteering, or fundraising—creates a tangible difference. Fundraising campaigns, for example, can provide counselling sessions, emergency support kits, or youth education programs.

Ways You Can Take Action

You don’t need to organize a big event to make an impact. Here’s how YOU can help:

1. Fundraise or Host a Campaign

Small initiatives, like a birthday fundraiser, workplace challenge, or community gathering, can directly benefit survivors.

Note: Fundraising initiatives require approval by VSAC. Contact: Alicia Sands — [email protected].

2. Donate Today

Your contributions support crisis response, counselling, youth education, and trauma-informed resources.

3. Volunteer

Volunteers are essential to VSAC’s mission. Explore opportunities to support survivors, engage the community, and strengthen prevention efforts on our volunteer page.

4. Spread Awareness

• Share social media posts and campaign messages

• Wear purple to show solidarity

• Start conversations about consent, boundaries, and safety

Even small actions ripple outward to strengthen our community.

Together, We Can Make a Difference

Ending gender-based violence requires collective action. By learning, sharing, volunteering, or donating, you help survivors access support, promote healing, and foster safer communities.

During the 16 Days of Activism—and every day—stand with survivors, act with purpose, and help build a future where safety, dignity, and respect are universal.

Contact for questions, donations, or support ideas: Alicia Sands — [email protected].