BCNU Echoes Calls for Action Against Gender-based Violence

Dec. 6 is a day of profound significance as the country honours the lives of 14 women killed in the 1989 Montréal Massacre at École Polytechnique. BCNU remembers these women and reaffirms our ongoing commitment to ending gender-based violence in all its forms.

Nurses and other health-care workers too frequently witness the devastating impacts of violence on families and communities. Gender-based violence continues to disproportionally affect women, girls, 2SLGBTQIA+ and gender diverse individuals, highlighting the urgent need for systemic change, and individual and collective action to address unacceptable levels of violence and discrimination.

The United Nations reports one woman is murdered every 10 minutes by partners and family members and in Canada, the Canadian Women’s Foundation states, one woman is killed every 48 hours due to gender-based violence. According to the Battered Women’s Support Services in BC (BWSS), femicide rates in the province have reached critical levels. In 2022, 24 women were killed due to femicide, double the average annual rate between 2010 and 2015.

In recognition of National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women, BCNU Council has approved a $1,000 donation per region to one or two local charities that support those impacted by gender-based violence. These donations will aim to strengthen community partnerships and raise awareness about the ongoing issue of violence against women.

The following charities have been selected to receive a donation in the new year. They are listed by BCNU region.

Let’s lend our voice and support to action against gender-based violence. Join the conversation at #NOEXCUSE or consider donating to the Canadian Women’s Foundation to advance gender equality and justice or to a local women’s shelter near you.