VICTORIA, B.C. – Sonia Furstenau, MLA for Cowichan Valley, issued the following statement in recognition of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women this Sunday:
“The International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women is held on November 25th each year in honour of the Mirabal sisters, who were murdered for their political activism. It also marks the beginning of 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, during which we reflect upon the violence that women face and take action to end it.
“Violence against women is a systemic problem in Canada and worldwide. One in three women around the world experience physical or sexual violence in their lifetime. We cannot recognize and address this violence without acknowledging the disproportionate impacts of gender-based violence on LGBTQ2+ communities, people of colour, those who are differently abled, and migrants and refugees. In Canada this is tragically represented by the violence that Indigenous women continue to face as a lasting legacy of colonialism.
“Building a future free of gender-based violence requires the advocacy and action of all of us. It is especially incumbent upon people with privilege to stand up against the root causes of gender-based violence - even seemingly small acts of discrimination and sexist rhetoric perpetuate a culture of gender-based violence. In order to end gender-based violence we need to commit to a full cultural shift in our workplaces, public institutions, homes and communities.
“Today I encourage you to reflect upon the gender-based violence routinely faced by millions around the globe and challenge you to take action. Speak up, get involved, and help to foster a safer and more inclusive society for people of all genders.”
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