Stop ‘Tolerhating’: Fighting Hate Through Passion and Collaboration

Written by Mina Yu, CRHESI Student Collective, Community Engaged Learning placement, Bachelor of Health Sciences, Western University

In 2024, the City of London launched the Stop Tolerhating campaign in collaboration with the Centre for Research on Health Equity and Social Inclusion (CRHESI) and over 60 local organizations. This initiative aims to confront hate, racism, and other forms of discrimination and stigma through City-wide education, collaboration and empowerment activities, fostering a more inclusive and equitable community.

During an interview with Zahra, Project Coordinator for the Anti-Hate Project, Stop Tolerhating, from the Anti-Racism and Anti-Oppression Division, City of London, involved in the campaign’s development and pilot launch, their passion for this project was obvious. Zahra shared that their personal experiences navigating discrimination inspired them to be a part of this initiative. “There’s so much power in starting something in your own community,” Zahra explained, emphasizing their commitment to making resources and support accessible to those facing hate and its impacts.

Stop Tolerhating general campaign poster, City of London

The campaign employs a multi-pronged approach, blending transformative media strategies, public education, and direct engagement with equity-denied communities. Guided by principles of intersectionality, the campaign is based on the knowledge that individuals often experience discrimination through overlapping identities such as race, gender, sexual orientation, and ability.

The campaign’s collaborative nature is one of its greatest strengths. It draws insights from equity-denied groups—including Black, Indigenous, Muslim, and LGBTQIA+ communities—through one-on-one conversations, surveys, and guided data-sharing sessions. Zahra described how these conversations revealed unique challenges, such as the lack of resources for Indigenous health in rural areas and the rise of online hate targeting Muslim communities. These insights directly shaped the development of educational content and resources for the campaign, ensuring relevance and impact.

The campaign also addresses broader audiences through its accessible website and social media presence. The website is designed to provide quick, easy access to crisis hotlines, anti-racism education, and tools for fostering anti-racist practices for individuals and organizations in the health, social services, business and educational sectors. Social media platforms amplify these resources and provide posts that inspire reflection by presenting educational content in an approachable way.

This Stop Tolerhating team recognizes the challenges of combating hate, ranging from resistance by individuals who deny the existence or severity of discrimination to those who refuse to change—particularly when they are not directly impacted or perceive advantages in maintaining the status quo. However, Zahra emphasized the importance of grounding the campaign in facts and meaningful engagement. “We’ve received a mix of feedback, but seeing how it resonates with the community makes it worth it.”

As Stop Tolerhating evolves, the campaign will continue adapting to emerging challenges and societal needs, such as the rise of anti-Asian racism post-COVID-19. With this flexibility, the campaign remains dynamic, responsive, and rooted in its mission to build a more inclusive London. The ultimate reward is fostering a city where diversity is celebrated, and hate is no longer tolerated. The passion and leadership of those involved in this project are the driving forces behind this transformative initiative.

Together, CRHESI, the City of London, and their collaborators are proving that tackling hate requires bold strategies, sustained commitment, and the collective voices of a diverse community.

Honoring the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence in London, Ontario

November 25 marked the start of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, a global campaign calling for the prevention and elimination of all forms of violence against women and girls. This powerful campaign encourages reflection, education, and dialogue about how we can collectively support those experiencing gender-based violence (GBV). In London, Ontario, several significant events are taking place to raise awareness and foster conversation about this important issue.

Here are a few events happening in our community as part of the 16 Days of Activism campaign:

Prima Facie Movie Screening

On Monday, December 2, at 7:00 p.m., the SilverCity Cineplex Masonville will host a screening of Prima Facie, an award-winning play by Suzie Miller. Starring Jodie Comer, this gripping film follows the story of Tessa, a talented barrister who must confront the intersection of patriarchal power, the burden of proof, and morality after a life-altering event. The screening provides an opportunity to reflect on the complexities of gender-based violence and the legal system’s role in addressing it. Tickets are $10 and can be reserved by contacting gail@lawc.on.ca. This event is hosted by the London Abused Women’s Centre and United Way Elgin Middlesex.

National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women – 35th Anniversary

On Friday, December 6, join the Anova team from 7:30 to 8:15 a.m. at Goodwill Industries (255 Horton Street, 3rd Floor, Town Hall Room) to honor the 14 women murdered at École Polytechnique in Montreal 35 years ago. These women were tragically targeted simply because of their gender. This annual event is an opportunity to reflect on the progress made in addressing gender-based violence and the work still ahead. To RSVP, please email suzieh@anovafuture.org.

Looking Back, Looking Forward: National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women Memorial

Later on December 6, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m., Western University’s Amit Chakma Engineering Building will host a memorial event to remember the 14 women murdered at L’École Polytechnique Montréal. This event will feature speakers Dr. Lauren Tribe and Dr. Opiyo Oloya, who will lead reflections on both the historical and current efforts to combat gender-based violence. The event is open to all, and no registration is required. Visitor parking is available at the Springett Lot.

Looking Back, Moving Forward: United to End Femicide

On the evening of December 6, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., join the London community for a candlelight vigil at the Women’s Monument in Victoria Park, in remembrance of the victims of the 1989 École Polytechnique massacre and all those lost to femicide. A reception will follow at Morrissey House, hosted by the London & District Labour Council Women’s Committee. This event is a joint effort organized by Anova, Changing Ways, Fanshawe College, the London Abused Women’s Centre, and the Women’s Rural Resource Centre.

These events are an essential part of collective efforts to raise awareness, stand in solidarity with survivors, and inspire change to end gender-based violence. As part of the global campaign, we encourage you to attend these events, share them on social media with the hashtag #16Days, and continue the conversation about what we can all do to make a difference.

Highlighting Black Excellence: The 4th Annual Gala & Awards

The 4th Annual Black Excellence Gala & Awards, hosted by the W.E.A.N Community Centre, is set to be an inspiring celebration of Black entrepreneurs, business leaders, and community members. This event will honor the outstanding achievements and resilience of Black-owned businesses, showcasing their contributions and success in the face of challenges over the years.

Since its inception, the Black Excellence Gala has partnered with the London Chamber of Commerce, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and support for Black entrepreneurs. The event not only recognizes the accomplishments of Black men and women in business but also includes a category to honor Black 2SLGBTQIA entrepreneurs, reflecting the diversity and inclusivity of the community.

In addition to acknowledging business success, the Gala will highlight humanitarian efforts and present the esteemed Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing individuals who have made a lasting impact on the community through their dedication and leadership.

The Black Excellence Gala is a significant event that underscores the power, innovation, and perseverance within the Black business community. By honoring these entrepreneurs, the event encourages continued growth and success while inspiring future generations to follow in their footsteps.

For those interested in attending and celebrating Black excellence, more information and tickets are available here.

Exploring Ancient Healing Practices: Physical Therapies in Ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia

Western University is hosting a public lecture titled “Unwrapping the Mummy: Physical Therapies and Managing Patient Wellbeing in Ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia” on Wednesday, October 16, 2024, from 6:00-7:00 p.m. in Room 3120, Entrepreneurship & Innovation Building.

Robin Baker, PhD, an expert in ancient Near Eastern civilizations, will explore early health practices, including neurorehabilitation and musculoskeletal treatments. Learn how ancient techniques relate to modern physical therapy.

Everyone is welcome to attend!

New Report on Mental Health Inequalities in Canada: Key Insights and Tools

We are pleased to share an important new report titled Inequalities in Mental Health, Well-being and Wellness: Social Determinants and Changes Over Time.” This publication, along with its accompanying data tool, offers valuable insights into trends related to mental health inequalities across various outcomes and determinants in Canada.

Understanding Mental Health Inequalities

This report is the first to present social inequality trends in mental health within the Canadian context. Utilizing intersectionality theory as a guiding framework, it combines qualitative and quantitative research to explore how these inequalities have evolved over time.

The findings delve into four key themes critical to understanding the social determinants of mental health:

  1. Socioeconomic Conditions: Highlighting how economic factors influence mental health outcomes, this theme emphasizes the importance of financial stability and access to resources.
  2. Racism, Xenophobia, Homophobia, and Other Types of Discrimination: This section underscores the negative impact of discrimination on mental well-being, revealing the challenges faced by marginalized communities in achieving mental wellness.
  3. Social and Cultural Connection, Support Networks, and Community Belonging: The importance of strong social ties and community support is examined, demonstrating how these factors contribute to better mental health outcomes.
  4. Access to, Quality of, and Use of Health Care Services: This theme discusses disparities in healthcare access and quality, stressing the need for equitable health services for all Canadians.

Key Features of the Data Tool

Accompanying the report is a data tool featuring over 15 indicators related to mental well-being, mental illness, and access to mental health care services. Notable indicators include:

  • Mean life satisfaction
  • Unmet needs for mental health services
  • Rates of flourishing mental health

These tools provide a deeper understanding of the mental health landscape in Canada and allow stakeholders to track changes over time.

Informing Policy for Better Health Outcomes

The insights gained from this report and data tool are essential for informing evidence-based health and social policy. By understanding the social and structural determinants of mental health, we can work toward ensuring health and well-being for all Canadians.

An executive summary of the report is available for those interested in a concise overview of the findings. Additionally, stay tuned for a series of infographics that will highlight the key results from each theme, set to be released soon.

For more details, visit the report’s page here.