The First Symposium of Together Against Violence took place in response to the alarming rise in gender-based violence (GBV) during the COVID-19 pandemic. As women faced increased childcare responsibilities, economic disparities, and systemic barriers, Skills for Change launched the Women and Girls Circle Project, providing mental health support, crisis intervention, and wellness programs.

Held virtually on February 17, the symposium brought together 10 community partners from the GBV sector to exchange ideas, share best practices, and host workshops and discussions aimed at addressing and preventing GBV. Key experts led impactful conversations on how organizations and communities can work Together Against Violence, fostering a collective approach to support survivors and drive systemic change.

This event was organized under the Women’s and Girls Circle Program, funded by the Canadian Women’s Foundation’s Safer Stronger Grant, and featured collaboration with:

• South Asian Health Research Hub
• Settlement Assistance and Family Support Services
• Women’s Support Network of York Region
• Bangladeshi Canadian Community Service
• Centre for Immigrants and Community Service
• Barbara Schlifer Commemorative Clinic
• Womenatthecentre
• Connecting Women with Scarborough Service
• The Women’s Centre of Halton
• South Asian Women’s Rights Organization Inc.

The symposium served as a powerful platform for awareness, advocacy, and action in the fight against gender-based violence.