In Canada, the White Ribbon campaign extends from November 25, the International Day for the Eradication of Violence Against Women, until December 6, Canada’s National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women. “Women still make up a disproportionate share of the people living in poverty in Canada, making them vulnerable to violence. Among the best ways to break down barriers and advance opportunities for women are through poverty eradication, national affordable child care, affordable post-secondary education, and affordable housing. Empowering women is a means of preventing domestic violence,” said Green Leader Elizabeth May, Member of Parliament for Saanich-Gulf Islands.
“The White Ribbon Campaign focuses our attention on violence against women. The Conservative government has pushed the clock backwards on women’s rights in Canada with the elimination of women’s pay equity rights, the failure to follow through with a national affordable child care program and the decimation of the Status of Women Canada,” said Green Women’s Critic Rebecca Harrison. “Now we have the killing of the Long Gun Registry, despite the protests of the police force and women’s groups who use the registry to find out what weapons are in a home where domestic violence is an issue.” According to the Nova Scotia Nurses’ Union, 88% of women killed with guns in Canada are shot with long guns.
Each year Harrison presents to high schools during the White Ribbon Campaign. “As a survivor of violence, I go into high schools and share my story, discuss the impacts of violence against women and discuss healthy equal relationships,” said Harrison. “It is very important to shine a light on violence, get it out into the open and say it is no longer acceptable.”
The White Ribbon Campaign is an international effort with a focus on educating men and boys on their role in ending violence against women. Wearing the white ribbon is a personal pledge to never commit, condone or remain silent about violence against women and girls.
The Green Party of Canada is dedicated to celebrating strong women, with a Women’s Council and a commitment to support greater engagement of women in the political life of Canada. Leader Elizabeth May participates in the Women’s Caucus on Parliament Hill.
The Greens will vigorously defend every hard-won victory for women’s rights and for women to advance forward towards full equality in Canada. Women’s equality is fundamental to a just society.