Awareness – Page 3 – Canadian Pride Historical Society

Category: Awareness

Aromantic flag (green, white, grey, black)

16 February 2025

This year, Aromantic Spectrum Awareness Week (ASAW) takes place from February 16th to 22nd. Aromantic people are an inextricable and wonderful part of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, the ‘A’ represents Aromantic people along with Asexual and Agender folks! Every year, we take these days to learn about Aromantic experiences, uplift Aromantic folks and fiercely reaffirm our commitment to supporting the Aromantic community.

Aromantic Spectrum Awareness Week was first celebrated from November 10th to 17th in 2014, before being moved to the week after Valentine’s Day the following year. That timing is intentional—the hyper-romanticism of Valentine’s Day can be tricky for Aromantic people to navigate, and so ASAW was moved to that time to provide space for Aromantic folks to celebrate their own experiences. ASAW is recognized across the world and is organized by volunteers from Aromantic-Official, AUREA, and other members of the community, who offer events, prompts and challenges for creators, and education on the Aromantic community and the struggles Aromantic people face.

In essence, Aromantic’ describes someone who experiences little to no romantic attraction. Romantic attraction is a specific variety of attractions that can best be explained as a desire to enter a romantic relationship with someone and is distinct from other forms of attraction such as platonic, intellectual, aesthetic, and sexual. These varying types of attraction can intersect, overlap, and be both tied together or completely separated from one another, and identifying as Aromantic does not say anything about how someone relates to any other sort of attraction.

The experiences of Aromantic folks (sometimes referred to as ‘Aros’) are incredibly diverse, hence the ‘spectrum’ in Aromantic Spectrum Awareness Week. Some Aromantic people feel absolutely no romantic attraction whatsoever, whereas some only experience it under specific circumstances, such as if an emotional connection has already been formed. Many Aromantic folks have no desire to be in a romantic relationship, yet many others find themselves quite happy in such dynamics. Even attitudes towards depictions or certain aspects of ‘romance’ vary immensely across the community—some Aromantic folks are repulsed by the idea of kissing, for instance, but others enjoy such an activity. There is no ‘one size fits all’ Aromantic experience—there are as many Aromantic experiences as there are Aromantic folks in the world—which is further exemplified by the number of identities that fall under the Aromantic spectrum, such as Demiromantic, Greyromantic, Quoiromantic, Lithromantic, and many more besides.

One extremely important distinction to make is the difference between Aromanticism and Asexuality, which are distinct and whole identities in themselves. While the two labels can go together, there are also a great number of Allosexual Aromantic and Asexual Alloromantic people in both communities, with Allo referring to the ability to experience a sort of attraction. Many folks on either or both spectrums like to use the Split Attraction Model to explain this distinction, which classifies each sort of attraction as something that can be felt independently of any other. Aromantic people might also identify with another label to describe another sort of attraction they feel, including but by no means limited to Heterosexual/Straight, Homosexual/Gay/Lesbian, Bisexual, or Asexual. People who do identify as both Asexual and Aromantic might see these labels as separate facets of their identity, as a single whole, or something in between. Regardless, one should never assume that every Aromantic person is Asexual, or vice versa. The Aromantic and Asexual communities do tend to be close thanks to shared experiences and support each other fiercely.

The modern Aromantic flag was designed in November 2014 by Cameron Whimsy following a discussion on Tumblr and replaced two flags that had previously been in use. The first and oldest featured four stripes—light green, yellow, orange, and black—and unfortunately, its designer is unknown. The second was Whimsy’s original design, from February of the same year, and featured five stripes of dark green, light green, yellow, grey, and black; Whimsy would redesign it following reports of sensory issues and cultural misunderstandings. The modern version of the flag follows in the footsteps of Whimsy’s first design: five colours, with dark green, light green, white, grey, and black stripes. Both green stripes represent Aromantic identities as a whole—green, on the colour wheel, is opposite red, which is the colour most traditionally associated with romance—while the white stripe represents the validity of relationships not based on romantic attraction, such as friendships. The grey and black stripes represent the sexuality spectrum and acknowledge the variety of different experiences Aromantic folks have with sexuality, such as Aroace experiences, Alloaro experiences, and anything in between.

Aromantic people do face several challenges, and those can even come from other members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. A number of these challenges can be summed up as the result of amatonormativity, or the belief that every person should be in an exclusive, long-term, romantic relationship and that every person is seeking such a relationship. This belief can lead to dismissal of Aromantic identity, disparaging remarks, (such as assuming Aromantic people ‘can’t feel love’) attempts to ‘fix’ Aromantic folks, and even exclusion from events that by all rights should be welcoming—such as those hosted for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, of which Aromantic people are a crucial part.

Aromantic erasure and lack of representation are also a large problem, although there has been progress in recent years. Celebrities such as Michaela Coel, Yasmin Benoit, Alice Oseman, and Jaiden Dittfach of Jaiden Animations have all proudly declared who they are, and characters such as Dusa from the video game Hades, Gwenpool from Marvel Comics, Issac Henderson from Heartstopper, and Lilith Clawthorne from The Owl House have likewise provided crucial representation for Aromantic people and proof that they’re not alone.

This Aromantic Spectrum Awareness Week, and every other week besides, it’s our duty to commit ourselves to supporting the Aromantic community however we can. Aromantic people have always and will always exist as their unique, authentic selves, and it’s important to take this week to not only raise awareness but also to celebrate their resilience and vibrancy both as individuals and as a community.

By Admin

Awareness

7 February 2025

February 7, 2025, is National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day. Throughout the HIV/AIDS epidemic, black communities have faced inequitable barriers to preventative measures and care for the disease that continues to this day. The history of the virus is mired in inequities and inequalities, especially towards those in black and queer communities.

Beginning in the early 1980s the public was informed of a disease that would later become known as HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) and the most advanced stage of HIV, referred to as AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome). Cases were initially documented by the Center for Disease Control in the United States showing a small group of gay men in Los Angeles who were described as having contracted a rare lung infection, in addition to other unusual infections. The disease was initially thought to be a gay cancer, leading the public to wrongly attribute the disease to only the gay community. As word of the disease travelled, many of the first patients to have contracted this new illness had already started dying.

By the mid-1980s it was discovered that women could also contract AIDS, in addition to passing it to their children, as case reports from around the world continued to document increasing infection rates across demographics. At this time in Africa, a heterosexual AIDS epidemic was underway, in addition to skyrocketing infection rates across the rest of the world. Thousands of people throughout the world who had contracted HIV would die of AIDS throughout the 1980s.

Due to the increasing mortality rates research was underway throughout the 1980s to better understand the virus and how to treat it. There were many misconceptions about the virus, in addition to many stigmas and discriminatory beliefs associated with HIV/AIDS. Although public health officials, politicians, researchers, and community organizations had started prioritizing and allocating more resources to the global crisis, it was not until 1987 that the first anti-retroviral drug, AZT, was developed.

Access to the drug AZT and other treatments was costly and the virus disproportionately affected marginalized and under-resourced communities, especially queer communities of colour and developing nations. By 1997, the UN estimated that approximately 30 million people around the world were living with HIV. This meant that approximately 1 in every 100 adults globally were living with HIV. Due to disproportionate resources, AIDS-related deaths in many Western countries decreased by the late 1990s, while at the same time, HIV was rapidly spreading throughout Asia, the Pacific, and Africa, especially sub-Saharan Africa.

As a result of treatments and preventative measures being far less available in developing nations, by 2002 both infection rates and mortality rates skyrocketed culminating in HIV/AIDS being the leading global cause of death among people aged 15-59 years old. African communities were hit hardest with 28.5 million Africans living with HIV back in 2002 and only 35,000 of that population able to access HIV treatment.

With so many people impacted globally by the virus, research proliferated and led to new advancements. In 2012, the FDA of the United States approved Truvada used for PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis), which allows those who do not have HIV but are at risk of contracting it, to take the drug to reduce their risk of contracting the virus. This, along with significant increases in testing, helped further reduce infection rates. First in more resourced countries and later in developing nations. Finally, by 2023 29.8 million people, out of 39 million people globally living with HIV, were taking retroviral drugs making their HIV levels undetectable and preventing the spread of the virus to their partners.

Although decreasing infection and mortality rates from HIV/AIDS are major milestones, black communities continue to disproportionately contract the virus. Many in the black community still face barriers to access for prevention and care.

Sources

https://www.who.int/news-room/spotlight/why-the-hiv-epidemic-is-not-over

https://aidsvu.org/news-updates/news-updates-toolkits-national-black-hiv-aids-awareness-day-toolkit-2024/

https://www.catie.ca/a-history-of-hivaids

https://www.hiv.gov/hiv-basics/overview/history/hiv-and-aids-timeline

https://www.unaids.org/en/resources/fact-sheet

https://www.hiv.gov/federal-response/ending-the-hiv-epidemic/overview/ending-epidemic-timeline

By Admin

Awareness

27 January 2025

Every year, on January 27, the world pauses to honour the lives lost during one of history’s darkest chapters: the Holocaust. This day is not just about remembering Jewish victims but also about reflecting on the persecution of other marginalized groups, including 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals. By revisiting these shared histories of suffering, we uncover lessons that inspire solidarity and collective action today.

Shared Histories of Persecution

During the Holocaust, 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals were among those targeted by the Nazi regime. Gay men were forced to wear pink triangles, intended as symbols of shame, which later became powerful emblems of 2SLGBTQIA+ resistance and pride. Many were imprisoned, subjected to inhumane medical experiments, or killed. This chapter in history is a stark reminder that hate thrives when diversity is seen as a threat.

In Canada, strides have been made to ensure these histories aren’t forgotten. Educational programs, exhibits, and collaborations between Jewish and 2SLGBTQIA+ communities have brought these intersecting experiences to light. These efforts emphasize the importance of standing together, helping us understand how prejudice and violence impact all vulnerable groups.

Solidarity in Action

Remembering the past is only part of the story—it’s what we do with those memories that matter. Across Canada, individuals and organizations are preserving Holocaust memory while promoting inclusivity and acceptance. Collaborative efforts between Jewish and 2SLGBTQIA+ communities have given rise to educational exhibits and creative projects that celebrate shared resilience and strength. These initiatives not only spark important conversations but also deepen our understanding of interconnected histories.

They also show how personal actions, no matter how small, can create meaningful change. Whether through art, education, or advocacy, these efforts demonstrate how we can challenge hate and build bridges between diverse communities. Solidarity isn’t just about remembering a shared past; it’s about actively standing together against ongoing discrimination.

Lessons for Today

The lessons of the Holocaust are as relevant as ever. Antisemitism and discrimination against 2SLGBTQIA+ people continue to rise globally, reminding us that vigilance against hate is a constant responsibility. The solidarity shown by marginalized groups—united by a shared commitment to justice and equality—is a powerful force against these threats.

Holocaust Remembrance Day calls on all of us to act—to amplify survivors’ voices, educate ourselves and others, and challenge bigotry in our daily lives. By understanding the devastating impact of hate, we equip ourselves to prevent history from repeating itself.

A Call to Action

This day is more than a time to reflect; it’s a chance to act and unite. By learning from the shared histories of persecution faced by Jewish and 2SLGBTQIA+ communities, we strengthen the bonds of solidarity that help us confront hate in all its forms. Consider attending a local Holocaust memorial event, supporting an organization fighting hate, or amplifying the voices of survivors and activists on social media. Let’s use this moment to take steps, big or small, toward building a world where diversity is celebrated, and everyone’s dignity is upheld.

Through remembrance and action, we can ensure that the promise of “Never Again” is not just a memory but a reality.

References:

https://hmd.org.uk/learn-about-the-holocaust-and-genocides/nazi-persecution/gay-people/

https://wienerholocaustlibrary.org/2021/02/09/persecution-of-gay-people-in-nazi-germany/

https://encyclopedia.ushmm.org/content/en/series/gay-men-and-lesbians-under-the-nazi-regime

https://www.wrdsb.ca/blog/2024/11/04/holocaust-education-week-3/

https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/campaigns/holocaust-antisemitism-canada.html

https://thecjn.ca/news/the-call-is-growing-for-mandatory-holocaust-education-in-the-province-of-quebec/

https://globalnews.ca/news/10065652/holocaust-educators-applaud-bc-and-ontario/

https://www.holocaust.org.uk/News/homosexual-victims-of-nazi-persecution

https://www.kulturacollective.com/jewish-pride-events/

https://www.jqtvancouver.ca/jqt-oral-history-bc

By Admin

Awareness

23 January 2025

Education is a fundamental human right that is inextricable from a happy and peaceful society, and on January 24th we recognize and celebrate it through the International Day of Education. We take this day to bring attention to both the crucial role that education plays in our past, present, and future, as well as the fact that many around the world are deprived of full and free access to such an important experience.

The establishment of an International Day of Education was declared at a meeting of the United Nations General Assembly on December 3rd, 2018, and the first day was recognized on January 24th the next year. Ever since, countries and organizations around the world—like UNESCO and Together For Girls—have commemorated the 24th in a variety of ways, such as the presentations and talks that the UN organizes. Each year has a designated ‘theme,’ ranging from 2021’s “Reclaiming and Revitalising Education for the COVID-19 Generation” to this year’s; “AI and education: Preserving human agency in a world of automation.”

Today, thanks to technology and organizations such as Wikipedia, we can enjoy wider access to information than ever before, and yet the disparity and inequalities in education have, arguably, grown. These obstacles to the human right that is education can display in a multitude of ways, and sprout from a variety of soils. Broadly, the United Nations estimates that 244 million children and adolescents around the world are not attending school, and 617 million cannot read or do basic math. This is a truly horrific set of numbers, especially considering the indispensable role of education in breaking the cycle of poverty, closing the gender gap, and improving quality of life all around.

Perhaps the largest of these barriers to access is due to gender-based discrimination. Assigned-female at birth folks across the world have been or actively are denied a full education for no reason other than their perceived gender. Even when permitted to attend school, girls and other gender-discriminated kids and youth might also face social pressure to drop out after a certain point, a lack of opportunity to attend higher education, (be it high school or post-secondary) or even restrictions in the things they’re ‘allowed’ to learn. Even here in Canada, where we have relatively broad access to education, girls and other gender-discriminated kids can and do still face discrimination from teachers and administrators in school. One of the major academic inequalities that all kids might face in Canada is the fact that access to comprehensive and factual sexual education varies dramatically based on where a kid goes to school. Not all provinces even require sex ed at all, let alone demand that the education provided be inclusive, accurate, and thorough. While this affects kids of all genders, the amount of misinformation around about female and intersex bodies in particular means that the lack of an unbiased, truthful source of information can lead to dangerous misconceptions.

While gender-based educational discrimination is a massive and global issue, inequalities in education can develop from a plethora of different areas. Educational discrimination based on race and/or class is another enormous challenge, especially considering the intersections that often occur between Black, Indigenous and People of Colour (BIPOC) folks and poverty. It’s a long-known pattern that schools in poorer areas (which statistically have a higher population of BIPOC individuals) tend to get fewer resources than those in wealthier neighbourhoods. This is, thankfully, something that has gotten more attention in recent years thanks to media such as Abbot Elementary, which focuses on an inner-city school and the teachers who work incredibly hard to make up for the fact that they are already starting on the back foot simply by where their school is. While this is extremely visible in America, we up north are by no means exempt from this pattern. First Nations youth in particular face massive inequality in education due to a web of interconnected reasons, which has led to a statistical chasm between First Nations students and a large portion of the country when it comes to cornerstones like graduation or a completed post-secondary education.

One other area of educational discrimination that we may not often think about, and one that affects a massive number of people globally and here in Canada, is the barriers to accessing post-secondary education. Perhaps the largest of these barriers is the enormous and oft-prohibitive cost required to gain a degree, certification, or any other higher education, which alone forces countless people to either take out debilitating loans or forego post-secondary education altogether. In a world and economy where the weight and importance of a degree seem to be only growing, it’s not hard to see how this barrier contributes to generational cycles of poverty. Of course, race, gender, disability, and any number of marginalizations beyond that also stand as obstacles to a post-secondary education that’s becoming increasingly necessary to many across the globe.

We may be in a golden age of information, but the reality is that not all of us have equal access to said golden age. It’s telling that this article has only barely scratched the surface of all the ways and reasons people’s access to education is restricted or made outright impossible—and one must remember that equal education is a truly intersectional issue. We here in Canada—although we are by no means a perfect example of a flawless educational system—do have far more privilege than so many around the world, and thus we must do what we can to ensure that one day, education is treated as the fundamental human right that it is for everyone.

By Admin

Awareness

6 January 2025

January marks Cervical Health Awareness Month—a time to learn, discuss, and take action on an important health issue that affects many people, regardless of gender identity. For trans and gender-diverse individuals, these conversations are especially critical. Systemic barriers, coupled with misinformation often hinder access to essential healthcare, making advocacy and education more important than ever.

One common misconception is that cervical cancer only affects cisgender women. In reality, if you have a cervix, you’re at risk—regardless of your gender identity. Trans men and non-binary individuals with a cervix should follow the same screening guidelines as cisgender women. All people with a cervix must receive timely screenings to ensure early detection and better outcomes.

Navigating healthcare as a trans or gender-diverse person can feel overwhelming, especially when facing discrimination or gender dysphoria in medical settings. However, taking control of your health is crucial, and there are concrete steps you can take to make the healthcare process more affirming, accessible, and comfortable.

Find Supportive Providers

Seek out healthcare professionals and clinics that are 2SLGBTQIA+-friendly. Resources like the Rainbow Health Network provide directories of affirming healthcare providers who are familiar with the specific challenges faced by gender-diverse individuals.

Know Your Rights

You are entitled to respectful and affirming care. If you encounter discrimination, organizations like Egale Canada offer resources to help you address and challenge healthcare inequities. Knowledge of your rights can also help you advocate for better care when you need it.

Be Prepared

Before your healthcare appointments, take time to write down your questions or concerns. This will empower you to advocate for your health and ensure you get the care you need. Consider asking your provider to explain the screening process and what to expect during the procedure. Inquire about how the provider plans to ensure your care is respectful of your gender identity. You might also ask whether there are any specific health risks you should be aware of based on your gender. Being prepared with these questions will help you feel more confident and in control of the process.

Consider At-Home Testing

If in-clinic screenings are uncomfortable or inaccessible for you, consider looking into HPV self-testing kits, which may be available in some regions. They provide a convenient and private alternative for monitoring your cervical health.

Taking these steps empowers you to manage your cervical health, ensuring that you can receive the care you need in a way that feels safe and supportive.

While individual actions are important, creating a truly inclusive healthcare system requires systemic change. Advocacy, education, and implementation of affirming healthcare policies are key to ensuring that everyone, regardless of gender identity, has access to quality cervical care.

At the Canadian Pride Historical Society, we stand with 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals and groups who have advocated for better healthcare access and continue to push for a future where everyone’s health is valued equally.

This Cervical Health Awareness Month, let’s commit to sharing accurate information, challenging misconceptions, and advocating for inclusive care. By working together, we can ensure that cervical health is accessible to all, regardless of identity.

By Admin

Pansexual & Panromantic visibility day, @ksu_lgbtq

Awareness

8 December 2024

December 8th is Pansexual Pride Day, an occasion for us to learn about Pansexual history, uplift Pan voices, and dedicate ourselves to supporting the Pan community in their fight for the rights we all deserve.

Pansexual Pride Day is the second of two similar events in the 2SLGBTQIA+ ‘calendar,’ so to speak, coming after Pansexual and Panromantic Visibility Day on May 24th. This year’s blog post from that date includes a simple overview of Pan history and some Pan figures you might know; if that is of interest to you, be sure to check it out.

‘Pan,’ encompassing both Pansexuality and Panromanticism, is a sexual and/or romantic orientation that is characterized by feeling attraction to all genders, without gender playing into said feelings of attraction at all. To quote Pansexual Canadian icon, (from Schitt’s Creek) David Rose: “I like the wine, not the label.” Pan identities fall under the multisexual umbrella—which also includes Bi, Omni, and Poly identities—but are distinct and unique identities of their own. Erasure, particularly erasing Pan identity in favour of calling Pan people ‘Bi,’ is a real issue, but Pan people have and will continue to proudly live their lives as their authentic selves, supported by a strong and vibrant community of others who feel the same way as they do.

The origins of Pansexual Pride Day are extremely murky. It’s unknown when exactly the commemoration of December 8th began, as is why that specific date was chosen. Unfortunately, this lack of information is standard for a lot of 2SLGBTQIA+ history, thanks to the simple fact that such history is often not considered to be worth recording. Regardless, the lack of a concrete origin has no bearing on the importance of Pansexual Pride Day to the Pan community and the 2SLGBTQIA+ community as a whole.

The Pan label is relatively new in the grand scheme of 2SLGBTQIA+ terminology, and as such has been heavily influenced by the internet. The internet has long been a powerful tool for 2SLGBTQIA+ people to connect with others in the community and for questioning folks to learn more about themselves, and Pan folks are no exception. The first major Pan community on the internet was the LiveJournal community “I Am Pansexual” in 2002, but the Pan corner of the internet only blossomed from there. Searches for ‘Pansexual’ saw an upward trend beginning in 2004, spiking in 2012, and booming in 2018. The iconic Pan Pride flag even saw its debut on the internet, having been posted to an anonymous Tumblr account by creator Jasper V in 2010. Today, websites, communities, and articles such as the one you’re reading right now continue to bolster, connect, and raise awareness for the Pan community.

It’s important for those of us who aren’t part of the Pan community to continuously support Pan folks not only on this Pansexual Pride Day but every other day of the year. The strength of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community is in our diversity, and Pan people have always and will always be an intrinsic and inextricable part of said community and strength.

By Admin

Awareness

5 December 2024

International Volunteer Day (IVD), held annually on Dec. 5, is a chance for us to pause and reflect on the incredible work volunteers do around the world. As the United Nations Volunteers (UNV) program reminds us, volunteering isn’t just about giving time—it’s about playing an active role in solving global challenges. Whether tackling climate change, fighting social injustice, or lending a hand in times of crisis, volunteers are often the first to step up. Their efforts are key in driving positive change, helping achieve social, environmental, and economic goals, and making those ambitious Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) a reality.

The theme for IVD 2024, Diverse Volunteers, Stronger Communities, perfectly captures the heart of volunteerism. Volunteers come from all walks of life and bring unique perspectives, but they are united by a shared commitment to improving the world around them. Whether part of a formal organization or simply helping informally in their community, volunteers are integral to tackling global issues that affect us all. In times of uncertainty, volunteerism is a source of hope and strength, showing that when people work together, they can make a real difference.

The power of volunteering in achieving the SDGs

As UNV points out, volunteers are crucial to reaching the SDGs. These goals, which include ending poverty, promoting health and well-being, advancing gender equality, and addressing climate change, can’t be achieved without active, on-the-ground participation from communities. Volunteers help take these big, global targets and turn them into meaningful, local action. They work with communities to create solutions that are not only effective but inclusive.

UNV’s research shows that 862.4 million people worldwide volunteer each month, and a large percentage of this is informal volunteering—like helping a neighbour or organizing a local event. While formal volunteering tends to be more male-dominated, women are more likely to be involved in informal volunteer work. These numbers show how vital volunteerism is in building stronger communities, bridging generational gaps, and empowering people to take charge of their development. Beyond this, volunteering shifts mindsets, turning participants into active contributors who help build more empathetic and connected communities.

Addressing Canada’s volunteer shortage

In Canada, however, the landscape of volunteerism is facing growing hurdles. In its latest report from 2022, Statistics Canada found that 65 percent of organizations reported a shortage of new volunteers, while 50 percent struggled to retain those they had. Furthermore, 42 percent found it difficult to secure long-term commitments from volunteers—all while 74 percent of organizations saw increased demand for their services.

This gap between the demand for services and the availability of volunteers highlights the need to bolster resources for volunteer-driven organizations. With fewer people stepping forward to help, the burden often falls on a smaller group of committed individuals, making it harder for nonprofits and charities to meet their goals.

Yet, even amid these difficulties, volunteers are still working hard to create connected and resilient communities. An example is the Canadian Pride Historical Society (CPHS), which is entirely volunteer-run. The dedication of individuals at CPHS helps preserve and share 2SLGBTQIA+ history in Canada, ensuring that important stories of activism, milestones, and struggles are documented for future generations.

How you can make a difference

International Volunteer Day is a chance to recognize the tangible impact of volunteering and how it strengthens communities. Whether through formal organizations or simple acts of kindness, volunteering is about finding ways to contribute that feel meaningful to you. Offering your time or skills, in whatever capacity you can, helps create connections and support systems that benefit everyone.

References:

https://www.un.org/en/observances/volunteer-day

https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2023/04/12/2645266/0/en/Volunteer-Canada-Urges-Return-to-Volunteering-as-Two-thirds-of-Organizations-Report-Shortage.html#:~:text=Over%20the%20last%20three%20years,nation’s%20social%20fabric%20is%20profound.

By Admin

International day for the elimination of violence against women, November 25th

Awareness

25 November 2024

Content Warning: this article contains a discussion of gender-based violence, violence against children, sexual violence, other specific types of violence, and death. Please take care of yourself if you choose to read.

November 25th is the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, a day that has become excruciatingly relevant in recent years and, indeed, the last few weeks. We take this day to rally for the eradication of gender-based violence of all kinds across the globe and to raise awareness of the pervasiveness of said violence, which is so widespread and insidious that the United Nations and other such influential organizations have described it as a ‘Pandemic.’

The date of November 25th was chosen to commemorate the 1960 assassinations of the three Mirabal sisters, courageous political activists from the Dominican Republic whose deaths were ordered by the then-dictator of the nation. It was first marked in 1981 by activists at the first Encuentros Feministas Latinoamericanas y del Caribe (en: Latin American and Caribbean Feminist Encuentros) in Bogotá and would later receive its official UN Resolution on February 7th, 2000. It has since been adopted as an important occasion around the globe, with organizations like the United Nations

The day also marks the start of the Sixteen Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, which serves to highlight the violence that is directed not only toward women but all those of a marginalized gender. These days are observed until Human Rights Day on December 10th, which marks the moment in 1948 that the United Nations adopted and proclaimed the Universal Declaration of Human Rights; a monumental document of its time that still influences the fight for equal rights to this day.

Here in Canada, the Sixteen Days also include December 6th, the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women. That day serves to remind us of the events of December 6th, 1989, when tragedy struck École Polytechnique de Montréal, and 14 women were massacred in a deeply misogynistic act of violence by a man who claimed he was ‘fighting feminism.’ What happened at École Polytechnique shook the country, and every year we as Canadians take the opportunity to not only remind ourselves of these horrible events but also to re-commit ourselves to ensure such an act of gender-based hatred never happens again.

Violence against women takes countless forms across all stages of a woman’s life, and statistics indicate that one in three women around the world will face gender-based violence in their lives. In 2023, at least fifty-one thousand women died due to gender-based violence, which means a woman was murdered once every ten minutes for the entire year. That number is unimaginably terrible, and yet those tragic losses are only one facet of the epidemic of violence that faces women around the globe. The UN defines violence against women as “any act of gender-based violence that results in, or is likely to result in, physical, sexual, or mental harm or suffering to women, including threats of such acts, coercion or arbitrary deprivation of liberty, whether occurring in public or in private life.”

To be a little more specific, The Gender Equality Commission of the Council of Europe has defined nine types of violence against women, categorizing them not based on stage of life or period, but by social context. They are: ‘Violence within the family or domestic violence,’ ’Rape and sexual violence,’ ‘Sexual harassment,’ ’Violence in institutional environments,’ ’Female genital mutilation,’ ‘Forced marriages,’ ‘Violence in conflict and post-conflict situations,’ ‘Killings in the name of honour,’ and ‘Failure to respect freedom of choice concerning reproduction.’

Gender-based violence has an incredibly old history that casts its shadow across the entire earth and can be perpetrated both by individuals and by societies. Both the Witch trials and the sexual slavery forced on the ‘comfort women’ were acts of state-sponsored violence against women, but they are by no means alone in that distinction and are by no means relics of the past. The International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women serves to remind us of this fact, and while the amount of progress we may have made so far might seem frighteningly small, and the length we still have to go might be overwhelmingly large, the day also calls upon us to fully commit ourselves to the fight until all of us are guaranteed a safe, secure, joyful life.

By Admin

Awareness

16 November 2024

Trans Awareness Week isn’t just a date on the calendar; it’s a time to celebrate the lives and contributions of trans, Two-Spirit, non-binary, and gender-diverse people while also acknowledging the ongoing challenges they face. Canada has made strides in recognizing trans rights, such as the joint statement issued by the Canadian Human Rights Commission (CHRC) and the Federal Housing Advocate earlier this year, which called for recognizing and protecting trans people’s fundam ental human rights. However, there’s still a lot of work to do. Trans people continue to face exclusion and challenges across different parts of life, and that’s where community support and allyship become important.

Trans people, especially when it comes to housing and healthcare, often face discrimination and unfair treatment. A 2023 survey by Canada’s Women’s National Housing and Homelessness Network revealed that nearly half of gender-diverse respondents reported discrimination from landlords due to their gender identity, and it’s the same story at homeless shelters. The fear of being mistreated adds to housing instability, with Trans PULSE Canada finding that 50 % of trans respondents anticipated discrimination when seeking housing. These statistics highlight the need for laws to ensure that everyone, regardless of gender identity, has a fair chance at finding a safe and stable home.

The challenges are particularly pressing for young people in the trans community. According to a statement from the CHRC, policy debates have often overlooked the health, safety, and rights of trans and gender-diverse youth. Trans PULSE Canada’s 2021 findings showed that two in five trans and non-binary youth have seriously considered suicide, and one in ten have attempted it. This alarming reality highlights the need for supportive environments where trans youth can express themselves safely. More resources specifically designed for trans youth can help address these needs and contribute to their well-being, ensuring they feel heard, respected, and accepted.

We believe that it is important to bring trans voices and stories into the spotlight. Through education, storytelling, and advocacy, we work to increase understanding and build empathy and support among the wider public. But the work of advocacy isn’t something that trans-led and 2SLGBTQIA+ organizations can do alone. This responsibility extends to all of us—individuals, community leaders, educators, and policymakers. By educating ourselves on trans issues, backing organizations that champion trans rights, and advocating for inclusive policies, we can each contribute to creating spaces where trans people feel respected and safe.

This Trans Awareness Week, let’s acknowledge our progress and the work ahead. Supporting trans rights extends beyond a week; it involves treating everyone with respect and dignity every day. By coming together, we can create an environment where all individuals feel safe and valued for who they are.

References:

https://www.chrc-ccdp.gc.ca/en/resources/joint-statement-trans-visibility-starts-upholding-trans-human-rights

https://womenshomelessness.ca/wp-content/uploads/Research-Brief-on-Housing-Need-Homelessness-amongst-Gender-Diverse-Persons.pdf

https://transpulsecanada.ca/results/responsive-report-housing-barriers-among-trans-and-non-binary-adults-in-canada/

By Admin

Intersex flag (purple circle on yellow background)

Awareness

8 November 2024

Every year on November 8th we recognize Intersex Day of Remembrance, also known as Intersex Solidarity Day. We use this time to recognize and bring awareness to the harm perpetuated towards the Intersex community, but also to acknowledge their strength and resilience. The Intersex community has long had a unique and wonderful bond with the broader 2SLGBTQIA+ community, yet their unique struggles for basic freedoms and rights are often dismissed. Intersex Day of Remembrance is a reminder for us outside of the Intersex community to listen, learn, and reaffirm our commitments to fighting for Intersex rights wherever we can.

The date of November 8th was chosen to commemorate the birthday of Herculine Barbin, a femme Intersex person who lived in 19th-century France. She was assigned female at birth, however, after she confessed to a priest that she had fallen in love with a woman, he requested her permission to have a doctor examine her. After it was subsequently discovered she was Intersex, a legal decision was declare her male. Barbin moved to Paris, where she began to write her memoirs while living in poverty. Her memoirs were later translated by Michael Foucault in 1980, bringing her feelings of having been ‘disinherited’ and forced under a ‘ridiculous inquisition’ to the attention of a broad audience. Her memoirs describe that Barbin considered herself an ‘exceptional woman’ but a woman nonetheless, regardless of what society thought. She would eventually end her own life eight years after the legal decision, but her memory would live on, not only through Intersex Day of Remembrance but also through references to her life in places such as Judith Butler’s renowned work Gender Trouble.

Intersex Awareness Day (which falls on October 26th) tends to be the more widely known day in North America, but Herculine Barbin’s story perfectly encapsulates exactly why Intersex Day of Remembrance is so critical of an occasion. Intersex people face violence on both an individual and systemic level that can be fatal, and so Intersex Day of Remembrance is an occasion for us to reflect on those affected by this cruelty and work towards ending it for good.

Prejudice against Intersex people (and thus, the focus the community’s activism often takes) manifests in a multitude of different forms. These can include ‘corrective’ and irreversible surgery performed on children far too young to give informed consent, a lack of legal recognition, equity, and protections from discrimination, and bigotry from individuals as well as the overall social system. Intersex activists have tirelessly fought against all of these issues and countless more for decades, and we also take time on Intersex Day of Remembrance to commemorate their incredible work.

Intersex people have existed since the dawn of humankind, living, loving, and finding joy just like any other person, and they’ve contributed immensely to the advancement of activism in all sorts of communities. Jim Sinclair, for instance, has done incredible work in the Neurodiversity movement. Xe was the first person to articulate the position of ‘Autism rights,’ and xyr anti-cure for Autism essay “Don’t Mourn for Us” is widely considered to be a foundational text in that movement. Xe was also the first documented Autistic person to reject the concept of ‘person-first language.’ Another pioneering Intersex activist is Gigi Raven Wilbur, who identifies as a bisexual ‘hermaphrodite,’ and was one of the three Bi+ folks who organized the very first Celebrate Bisexuality+ Day.

The fight for Intersex rights is by no means constrained to November 8th but must be continued tirelessly throughout the entire year to ensure progress continues to eclipse ignorance. Intersex people are now and forevermore a beautiful, diverse, and tenacious community, and we must make sure to listen to their voices as we work towards a brighter future.

By Admin

Category: Awareness

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