There is a revolution taking place at Surrey City Hall. Kwantlen Polytechnic University’s (KPU’s) Network to Eliminate Violence in Relationships (NEVR) will once again host the One Billion Rising Revolution in Surrey as a show of solidarity with women all over the world who are vulnerable or exploited.
“Since its inception, people across the world have come together every year to express their outrage by striking, dancing, marching and rising in defiance of the injustices women suffer,” said KPU nursing instructor Dr. Balbir Gurm, facilitator of NEVR.
This year, the One Billion Rising Revolution will take place at noon on Thursday, Feb. 23 in the Surrey City Hall atrium, 13450-104th Ave.
One Billion Rising is a global movement that started in 2012 and is aimed at ending violence against women all around the world. “Massive efforts have been made to change the paradigm, demand accountability, justice, and systemic change,” says Gurm. “With everyone’s participation in the One Billion Rising Revolution, we are rising, not only for ourselves but also for others to show that we stand determined to create change and eliminate violence.”
The theme of this year’s movement is workplace violence, which is reflected in the event program. Two survivors of workplace violence will share their experiences. In addition, Surrey RCMP Chief Superintendent Dwayne McDonald, representatives from government, and members of the BC Lions will also attend in support.
“We extend an invitation to the entire community to come out and join us for inspiration, motivation, music, and refreshments,” said Gurm.
• WHAT: One Billion Rising Revolution
• WHERE: City of Surrey Hall Atrium, 13450-104th Ave., Surrey, B.C.
• WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 23, 2017
• TIME: 12 p.m.