Empowering Change: LCS Students Take Action on National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women

In Canada, December 6 marks the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women. Throughout December, students in Ms. Brown's Grade 11 Gender Studies and Grade 12 Equity and Social Justice classes took steps toward creating awareness, understanding, and actively addressing gender-based violence (GBV).

Our school community first acknowledged this day of recognition in our all-school Chapel program. Following the presentation, our Gender Studies students were tasked with researching an individual or organization that stands as a beacon in promoting awareness and action to end GBV. Their work resulted in the creation of impactful media products, tailored with specific goals and audiences in mind. On Friday, December 15, these students reached out to the individuals or organizations they researched, sharing links to their products, and granting permission for their work to be used in media platforms.

Nabeeha ’26 received a swift response from the CEO of Next Gen Men, who not only congratulated her on her work but also expressed his intention to share her product with their Media Relations team for use in educational materials. Equally inspiring was Lily ’26’s email from the CEO of The Famous Five organization, in which they thanked Lily for giving them permission to post her work. They also encouraged Lily to host a Pink Tea at LCS. 

Meanwhile, in Ms. Brown's Grade 12 Equity and Social Justice class, students crafted media products that shed light on GBV through an intersectional lens. Students presented their work to the class, sparking insightful discussions. The class also decided to support the Shine A Light Campaign of the YWCA. Their collective efforts raised $91, which, thanks to a sponsor's matching program, translates to $182. With the guidance of Ms. Brown, students directed their funds to sponsor a woman or child for the holidays and provide two holiday meals for another woman and child.

Ms. Brown commended her students and informed both them and their parents about the tangible impact of their leadership. The collective effort to address gender-based violence is undeniably challenging, but the commitment and enthusiasm displayed by these students is encouraging. Through informed understanding and research, they are not only confronting the difficult realities of GBV but also actively participating in strategies to prevent and end it.