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16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence in Langley Schools

December 1, 2022

The Langley School District continues to foster an inclusive and nurturing culture where every member of our community is healthy, safe, respected, and feels a sense of belonging. To support this work, the District is joining districts across the country and taking part in the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence campaign. It is annual international campaign that begins on November 25, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, and goes until December 10, the Human Rights Day.

This campaign started in 1991 to call out and speak up on gender-based violence, and to renew the commitment to ending violence against women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ individuals. This year’s theme is “UNITE! Activism to End Violence Against Women and Girls!”

The Ministry of Education and Child Care is highlighting the important role of K-12 teachers, staff, administrators, trustees, and advocates in creating systemic change to reduce violence. The government has provided resources to help teachers build a culture of consent in their classrooms and schools:

  • The B.C. government’s Supporting Student Health guides (Elementary and Secondary) have been significantly expanded to include more content related to consent and gender-based violence. These guides provide background information and teaching suggestions to help teachers feel more confident and comfortable addressing these situations with their students.
  • Further enhancements have been developed for the Physical and Health Education (PHE) curriculum to provide teachers with additional guidance on how to integrate these topics into their classrooms.
  • The erase website has expanded to include dedicated resources on consent and gender-based violence to prevent and respond to different forms of gender-based abuse.

Research from Statistics Canada has indicated that one-third of Canadian children under 15 have experienced some form of physical or sexual abuse. The impact of this childhood trauma has far-reaching effects, with survivors of abuse being more likely to have long-term physical and mental health needs and are more likely to have alcohol or drug disorders.

At a local level, the recently District made amendments to the Student Code of Conduct (AP 350), which now includes language prohibiting acts of gender-based violence in our schools. As a District that is prioritizing trauma-informed practices, we are also committed to helping raise awareness and education to prevent gender-based violence in our schools.

You can find more information on the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign here.