Canada : Violence Against Women International Conference on Women and Culture Is This Friday

Violence against women is a deeply rooted issue that extends far beyond the realm of physical harm. The broader scope of violence encompasses not only physical abuse but also sexual, emotional, psychological, and financial abuse. Understanding this spectrum of violence is critical for fostering an inclusive approach to protecting women. The upcoming VAW International Conference on Women and Culture, now rescheduled as a one-day event on September 13, 2024, will address these multifaceted forms of violence and how they intersect with cultural and social norms across the globe.

The National Plan to Reduce Violence Against Women primarily focuses on two major types of abuse: domestic and family violence, and sexual assault. These forms of violence often coexist with other kinds of harm that may be invisible but are no less damaging. For instance, emotional manipulation and financial control can be insidious forms of violence that trap women in abusive situations without any physical contact being involved.

This conference aims to delve into such topics by bringing together scholars, advocates, and leaders from various fields to explore how violence against women has been defined historically and in modern contexts. Additionally, discussions will consider how culture shapes and perpetuates gender roles that leave women vulnerable to abuse.

Participants will engage in multidisciplinary sessions that cover:

• The social norms that influence women’s roles in cultural settings.
• The historical evolution of violence against women (VAW) and its modern interpretations.
• Women’s experiences across different societies and their strategies for overcoming these challenges.
• The interplay between women’s social identities and the types of violence they may face, particularly in settings where culture, tradition, and social expectations are deeply entrenched.

The VAW International Conference will provide a platform to share insights on both the progress made and the obstacles still facing women globally. Although the event was originally slated for two days, unforeseen logistical challenges have prompted organizers to condense the conference into a single day. Despite this adjustment, the conference promises to offer a valuable and impactful experience.

To be held at the White Shield Banquet Hall, 2300 Lawrence Ave E, Scarborough, the conference will start promptly at 9:00 AM and will include keynote speakers, panel discussions, and workshops. Details of the revised agenda will be shared with participants soon.

The executive director of VAW International, Elizabeth, has expressed the organization’s commitment to delivering a high-quality event despite the changes. The rescheduling was a necessary step to ensure smooth execution, but the essence of the event—to elevate global conversations about violence against women and its far-reaching impact—remains unchanged.

For more information, attendees can visit the official website www.vawinternational.org or reach out via email at [email protected].

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This event underscores the importance of global solidarity in the fight against violence in all its forms and reminds us that addressing violence against women requires more than focusing on physical harm—it calls for understanding the full spectrum of abuses women face in everyday life.

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