16 Actions for 16 Days of Activism
It’s been a difficult year – and for some, more difficult than others. The pandemic has exposed and entrenched existing inequalities. It’s put huge pressure on our mental health. It’s trapped many women into a nightmare confinement with their own abusers, seeing domestic violence levels skyrocket.
And whilst the second wave of cases and restrictions on public life sweeps Canada and much of the world, it’s important we don’t stop raising our voices and finding ways to heal our society of this violence. Here are 16 actions you can take from home for the 16 days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, from 25 November – 10 December.
1. Know the facts
In this time of fake news, it’s important you’ve got the facts straight when talking about gender-based violence. Take some time to research the situation in Canada – here are some general facts about gender-based violence, and the crisis of murdered and missing Indigenous women and children.
2. Share the story
Conversations are powerful. Keep sharing this narrative of growing violence and your connection with the cause. Many people may be unaware of what’s happening.
3. Order moose hide pins
A moose hide pin is a great way to start talking about ending gender-based violence. When someone asks why you’re wearing it, that’s your opportunity to talk about the cause – and get them involved in taking action too. Order yours, and more to share, for free here.
4. Reach out to those around you
At this time of isolation, it’s more important than ever to be there for the people around you – for loved ones, for neighbours. Make an extra effort to let them know you’re there – and reach out to them too when you need support.
5. Know who to contact
Know which numbers to dial if there’s an emergency. Look up your local domestic violence helplines, or favourite this list of national services.
6. Wear your moose hide online
Just because you’re staying in more, it doesn’t mean you have to stop you wearing your moose hide pin. Keep wearing your pin online for all those zoom meetings, TikTok videos and Facebook catch-ups.
7. Look for warning signs
Make sure you’re aware of the danger signs of abuse – both within your relationships and those around you. Here’s a great breakdown from UN Women.
8. Update your background
Adding a background to your online meetings is a great way to continue to spread awareness. Download our new zoom backgrounds or create your own.
9. Find or found a talking circle
Many of our supporters have set up talking circles in their local communities – particularly for groups of men. These are safe spaces to open up, share stories and struggles and support each other in a non-judgemental way. These have proven to be hugely beneficial for mental well-being.
10. Share our new campaign video
We released a new video this week – all about the Moose Hide Campaign and what we’ve managed to achieve over the last decade. We’d love you to share it from our social channels and spread the word of our work and mission.
11. Donate to the cause
Make a donation to support a local shelter or helpline – they will hugely appreciate your support. Make this your cause for this year’s Giving Tuesday on 1 December.
12. Register for our February online gathering
Join us for our first ever completely virtual gathering! We’re bringing people together for a day of action this February – including free workshops and a livestream where you’ll hear from our co-founders and keynote speakers. Register here.
13. Hold an online awareness event
Raise awareness of growing violence by organizing an event online – a quiz night for example – or ask a local expert to speak. Invite your colleagues or friends and family to learn more.
14. Fundraise to end domestic violence
Raise money for the cause and support a local or national charity working to end violence. Many fundraising challenges have taken their events online – so you can remotely run a half-marathon or get involved in other challenges remotely to raise money.
15. Call-out microaggressions
Stand up to violent behaviour, language and sexism when you see it. These microaggressions could be a first sign of violence, or the potential for violence, at home. Make sure you close it down when you see it and make it clear what’s unacceptable behaviour.
16. #FastToEndViolence
Take part in our day-long fast for the day this February. As part of Moose Hide Campaign Day, we’re asking supporters to fast in solidarity to demonstrate their commitment to stand against growing levels of domestic and gender-based violence. Sign-up to fast here.
