16 Days Activism Against Gender-Based Violence
“The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence reminds us of the power of solidarity in the fight against violence,” the Centre Against Abuse said, with the charity noting that they have “designed a calendar of actionable ideas that everyone can do to bring awareness to ending GBV during the 16 Days of Activism.”
A spokesperson said, “Each year, from November 25 to December 10, worldwide millions of people observe the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence [GBV]. This international campaign brings attention to the prevalent crisis of gender-based violence, a violation of human rights that affects women, men, and gender minorities, including transgender and non-binary people.
“The 16 days span from the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women [November 25] and includes World AIDS Day [December 1], International Day for the Disabled [December 3], and ends with Human Rights Day [December 10]. The theme under UN Women is #NOEXCUSE. This provides an opportune time for a call to action to end violence in all its forms.”
Laurie Shiell, executive director of Centre Against Abuse, states, “Although women and girls are the main victims of GBV, it also causes severe harm to families and communities, and we must come together as a collective to end GBV. The term, gender-based violence is used to describe crimes such as sexual assault, domestic abuse, and stalking, which are overwhelmingly carried out by men against women.
“While this is a continuing symptom of historical inequalities of power and control that exist in society, we the masses, have the collective influence and authority to end GBV by utilizing our voices in every facet of society to speak out when we see the continuance of these forms of discrimination. CAA wants citizens, government, and institutions to take concrete actions to catalyse change and end GBV. “
“CAA is calling for a shift in our culture. CAA was pleased with the establishment of the Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Committee [MARAC]. This group which comprises the Department of Child and Family Services, Ageing and Disability Services, Bermuda Police Service, and Centre Against Abuse, review high risk domestic abuse matters for increased safety measures for those individuals, and also implement programmes across the island that will lead to increased safety for victims, and to increase intervention services for perpetrators.”
A spokesperson added, “Bermuda is small enough that we can create change at a greater pace when everyone is committed to the cause. Education plays a crucial role in preventing gender-based violence. By raising awareness about the dynamics of power and control, stereotypes about gender, and the rights of individuals, the 16 Days of Activism encourages people to understand the root causes of GBV. It fosters a culture of respect for all, along with equality, teaching future generations about healthy relationships and mutual consent.
“This provides another opportunity for CAA to highlight that gender violence is not a rare or isolated occurrence; it affects countless individuals throughout our island. Key areas of focus under GBV for Bermuda are:
1. Domestic Violence and Intimate Partner Violence
“One of the most common forms of GBV is domestic violence. This includes physical, emotional, and financial abuse that often occurs behind closed doors. It is vital for society to shift its attitude towards this issue, encouraging victims to speak out and creating a support system that prioritizes their safety, and we must hold abusers accountable and teach our children about signs of power and control and how to spot the signs early and removed themselves safely.
2. Sexual Violence and Harassment
“Sexual violence, including rape and sexual assault, remains a significant challenge. This issue is particularly prevalent in workplaces, schools, and public spaces, where victims often feel helpless or too afraid to report their experiences. Cat calling and women feeling unsafe to be alone in public can no longer be tolerated and must be eliminated. Harassment also now includes utilizing technology to monitor, stalk, harass, and instill fear. Holistic laws must be implemented with penalties and reformation opportunities for the abusers.
3. Access to Justice and Legal Reforms
“An essential part of addressing GBV is ensuring that survivors have access to justice. In Bermuda our legal systems often leave victims feeling revictimized. We must implement laws that maintain the safety of a victim at the core and introduce policies that support victims through accessible reporting channels and judicial procedures.
“Ending gender-based violence is not the responsibility of a few; it requires collective action. Our government must ensure the enforcement of laws that protect individuals from violence and hold perpetrators accountable. Educational institutions, civil society, and corporations must work together to create safe environments for all through policies and procedures. However, change also begins on a personal level, with individuals becoming more aware of their behaviours, challenging harmful societal norms, supporting survivors, and modelling behaviour that is based in equality.”
Mrs. Shiell continued, “The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence reminds us of the power of solidarity in the fight against violence. Whether through grassroots activism, advocacy for better policies, or supporting survivors directly, every action counts. The goal is clear: to create a Bermuda where gender-based violence is no longer tolerated and is eliminated.
“Centre Against Abuse has designed a calendar of actionable ideas that everyone can do to bring awareness to ending GBV during the 16 Days of Activism.
“CAA encourages everyone to begin this practice of activism during the 16 Day of Activism Against Gender Based Violence, to create a lifestyle of ensuring the equality of all, ending power dynamics that discriminate against the vulnerable, and upholding everyone as equal humans with inalienable rights.”
