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.
