As First Nations leaders at the First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) who identify as women, we are committed to ending both gender-based and race-based violence. We speak out against it, challenge it, and encourage others to do the same.
One way we can all speak out against gender-based violence is by supporting public health events that raise awareness and promote action, such as the annual 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.
This global campaign runs from Nov. 25 (International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women) to Dec. 10 (International Human Rights Day), and includes the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence against Women on Dec. 6.
If you are interested in getting involved, you'll find suggestions at the end of our message.
As a First Nations organization serving First Nations communities in BC, the FNHA is deeply concerned about the disproportionate levels of violence against Indigenous (First Nations, Métis, Inuit) women, girls, and 2S/LGBTQQIA+ people.
In BC, the number of murdered or missing Indigenous women is so high that a Missing Women Commission of Inquiry was created to investigate the issue. The Commission's 2012 report, Forsaken, revealed that approximately 33 percent of BC's murdered or missing women were Indigenous, even though Indigenous people make up only about three percent of the province's population.
This inquiry led to the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, which, in its 2019 report, Reclaiming Power and Place, concluded that “persistent and deliberate human and Indigenous rights violations and abuses are the root cause behind Canada's staggering rates of violence against Indigenous women, girls and 2S/LGBTQQIA+ people."
Tragically, Indigenous women also experience race- and gender-based violence in places where they should feel safe, including healthcare settings. We remember with profound sorrow the inexcusable death of Joyce Echaquan, as just one example.
This is beyond unacceptable, and the FNHA remains committed to its ongoing work to eliminate Indigenous-specific racism.
We hope you will join us in standing against race- and gender-based violence. During this 16-day campaign, here are some ways you can get involved:
- Wear purple on Nov. 25 for the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.
- Share the social media posts available on the 16 Days website or reshare their social posts.
- Reach out to local Indigenous women's organizations or shelters that work to prevent race- and gender-based violence and support. survivors. Ask how you can help.
- Host a screening of a movie, video or documentary related to race- or gender-based violence, such as those available on the National Film Board website. Ensure a trained support person is present to respond to questions.
- Create a visual art piece or collage depicting what a healthy relationship or providing support to others means to you.
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