Event Recap: Breaking the Silence – A Day of Healing and Empowerment
On Friday, September 13, 2024, the Muslim Advisory Council of Canada (MACC), in partnership with the Centre for Community Based Research (CCBR), hosted Breaking the Silence: A Day of Healing and Empowerment at the Burlington Convention Centre. The event marked a powerful gathering of over 150 community members, advocates, healthcare professionals, and thought leaders, all coming together to confront and address gender-based violence (GBV) in Muslim and non-Muslim communities.
The event, which ran for four and a half hours, was part of a 30-month community-based research initiative focused on tackling the barriers Muslim women face in accessing GBV services. In light of a recent tragedy in Milton, where a woman lost her life due to intimate partner violence, this event took on even greater significance, serving as both a call to action and a space for healing.
The day opened with heartfelt remarks from MACC Executive Director, Tabassum Wyne, and CCBR partners, highlighting the urgent need for culturally responsive support services. They shared preliminary findings from their research, which spotlighted the obstacles Muslim women face when seeking help, including cultural stigmas, a lack of awareness of available services, and systemic gaps in healthcare and community support systems.
Keynote speakers included prominent GBV advocates and healthcare professionals, who led a dynamic panel discussion on fostering change within Muslim communities. Panelists emphasized the importance of education, collaboration, and culturally sensitive care in combating GBV and supporting survivors.
Attendees participated in interactive sessions designed to empower individuals to become advocates for change in their own communities. One of the most impactful moments was when survivors shared personal stories of their journeys toward healing, courageously breaking the silence on issues often kept hidden.
In closing, attendees left feeling more connected, informed, and empowered to continue the fight against gender-based violence. The event successfully laid the foundation for ongoing discussions and actions to address GBV within Canadian Muslim communities and beyond. It also reinforced the importance of collective healing and community-driven solutions in fostering social change.
Breaking the Silence was not just a day of dialogue but a crucial step forward in breaking down barriers, advocating for equitable services, and building a future where Muslim women have access to the support they need and deserve.
We would like to extend our thanks to our title sponsor for their generous support. Thank you for helping us make a difference and for being an essential part of our success.
