This week, YWCA Edmonton joins YWCA Canada and more than 90 countries around the world in marking the Week Without Violence, a global campaign led by World YWCA.
For decades, the YWCA movement has come together each October to call for an end to all forms of gender-based violence. It is a moment to reflect on the progress that has been made and to recommit to building a future where everyone can live safely and with dignity.
This year’s theme, “Rise for Peace,” calls us to collective action. Peace is not simply the absence of violence. It is the presence of safety, justice, equity, and opportunity.
At YWCA Edmonton, we rise for peace every day through frontline counselling services, violence prevention education, and community partnerships that create pathways to healing and change. Our programs support survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and trauma, and help families and communities rebuild stronger together.
Last year in Canada, 187 women and girls were killed by gender-based violence. Globally, more than 60 million women and children are displaced by conflict and persecution. Behind every number is a person, a family, and a story that reminds us why this work matters.
These realities are unacceptable. Violence in all its forms, whether at home, in the workplace, or in the community, prevents people from fully participating in society and reaching their potential.
We rise for peace by standing with survivors. We rise by educating youth and communities about healthy relationships and respect. We rise by challenging the systems and attitudes that allow violence to persist.
Ending gender-based violence requires all of us. Together, we can build communities where peace and safety are not privileges, but rights for everyone.
Join us. Rise for peace.
