On November 23, 2024, the Zonta Club of Brampton-Caledon hosted its annual “Brunch for Action” at the Bramalea Lions Hall, marking the commencement of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. This international campaign, running from November 25 to December 10, aims to raise awareness and combat violence against women and girls.
The event featured esteemed speakers, including Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown and Councillor Rowena Santos, both of whom have been vocal advocates for addressing intimate partner violence in the community. Mayor Brown emphasized the urgent need for collective action, stating, “We must do better as a society in combating intimate partner violence. Sadly, the trend in Peel and Canada is getting worse, not better.”
Councillor Santos highlighted the alarming statistics in Peel Region, noting that intimate partner violence was declared an epidemic in 2023. She referenced recent reports indicating a continued rise in such incidents, with Peel Children’s Aid Society reporting that intimate partner violence is the main reason for referrals, representing roughly one-third of all cases.
The Zonta Club of Brampton-Caledon, with a history spanning over 50 years, has been a steadfast advocate against domestic violence. Their initiatives, including the annual “Brunch for Action,” aim to empower women and girls locally and globally. The club’s president reiterated their commitment, stating, “Our mission is to make a better world for women and girls, and we will continue to advocate for change until violence against women is eradicated.”
The event also served as a platform to discuss actionable steps to address the crisis. Mayor Brown called for increased funding for support services and emphasized the importance of community involvement in prevention efforts. Councillor Santos urged attendees to engage with local organizations and support policies aimed at protecting victims and holding perpetrators accountable.
As the 16 Days of Activism continue, the Zonta Club encourages community members to participate in various events and initiatives designed to raise awareness and drive change. For more information on upcoming activities and how to get involved, visit the Zonta Club of Brampton-Caledon’s official website.
The collective message from the brunch was clear: combating intimate partner violence requires a unified effort from all sectors of society. By coming together, the community can work towards a future where every woman and girl lives free from the threat of violence.