Flag at half-mast as Kawartha Lakes observes National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women

On December 6, we recognize the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women. Each year on November 25, the world marks the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women: a day to reflect on the persistent and widespread impact of gender-based violence, and to honour the generations of women whose advocacy and courage have driven meaningful change. This date also launches the United Nations’ 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, continuing through to December 10, Human Rights Day.

According to the United Nations, “Violence against women and girls remains one of the most prevalent and pervasive human rights violations in the world. Globally, an estimated 736 million women — almost one in three — have been subjected to physical and/or sexual intimate partner violence, non-partner sexual violence, or both, at least once in their life.”

A look back: How the movement began in Canada

Canada’s response to gender-based violence was not initially shaped by government action, but by women themselves.

As recently as the early 1970s, Canadian women faced significant legal and economic restrictions. In many regions, married women needed their husband’s permission to open a bank account, apply for credit, or own property. Even basic actions, such as obtaining a library card, were often reserved for male heads of household. These barriers made it incredibly difficult to leave abusive situations and reinforced the harmful belief that domestic violence was a “private” matter.

Momentum for change grew following the Royal Commission on the Status of Women (1967–1970), which exposed systemic inequalities and validated feminist concerns about the link between economic dependency and vulnerability to violence.

In 1973, a group of determined feminist organizers secured federal funding to open Interval House in Toronto, recognized as Canada’s first women’s shelter. Founded by women who refused to accept silence or stigma, Interval House sparked a movement that led to the creation of shelters across the country, many built through grassroots organizing and bold community leadership.

This legacy of courage transformed Canada’s social landscape and continues to influence the supports and protections available today. But the work is not finished.

Digital violence: The new frontier

This year’s UNiTE campaign draws critical attention to the rise of digital violence against women and girls. Online harassment, image-based abuse, including deepfakes, threats, stalking, and coordinated attacks, especially target women in public-facing roles. Weak regulation, anonymity, and rapidly evolving technology contribute to this alarming trend.

Digital violence is real violence. Its impacts are lasting. There is #NoExcuse for online abuse.

December 6: A national commitment to remembrance and action

The 16 Days of Activism encompass Canada’s National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women on December 6. This solemn date commemorates the lives of the 14 young women murdered in the 1989 anti-feminist attack at École Polytechnique in Montréal.

It is a day of reflection, remembrance, and renewed commitment to a future free from gender-based violence.

Mayor Elmslie expressed Kawartha Lakes’ commitment to fostering a safe and inclusive environment, stating, “We join communities across the nation in remembering those who have suffered due to gender-based violence. Kawartha Lakes reaffirms its dedication to creating a community where everyone feels safe, respected, and free from violence.”

To honour this day, the Canadian flag at City Hall in Lindsay will be flown at half-mast starting on December 5. It will remain at half-mast until Monday, December 8. Residents are encouraged to participate in community events through Women’s Resources, engage in learning and conversations, and support initiatives that prevent violence and strengthen survivor-centered supports.

As we recognize the National Day of Remembrance, observed the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, and join the global call to action, Kawartha Lakes stands united. United in remembrance. United in support. United in action.