A purple flag waves in Windsor's City Hall square to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and the start of 16 Days of Activism against Gender Based Violence.
"We're asking people to learn about gender based violence, find out what it is, talk to others about it and ask questions and offer support if you know someone or love someone who may be experiencing violence, just to spark the conversation," said Sylvie Gunther, Executive Director of the Hiatus House.
The Hiatus House offers emergency shelter for women and children fleeing domestic violence. In 2024-2025, the shelter admitted 351 women and 183 children.
"We were way over our estimated target capacity last year. We served about 40 per cent more people than we anticipated serving and we expect to see that trend continue," said Gunther.
She said as more people are talking about gender based violence, more people are seeking their services.
"I think we've come to a time where we recognize how big of an issue it is through the headlines that we're seeing, women losing their lives to femicide and we have to stop being silent about it. We need to talk openly and make sure that people are getting the help they need," said Gunther.
On November 12, a 26-year-old Windsor woman was killed in what Windsor police believe was an instance of intimate partner violence.
To find out more about the 16 Days of Activism against Gender Based Violence, click here.
