November marks an essential time for the work I do at Safe Space Workplace, as it encompasses the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. This global campaign runs annually from November 25th to December 10th, highlighting the importance of addressing violence, promoting equality, and creating safer environments in both personal and professional spaces.
Why the 16 Days Matter
The 16 Days of Activism is a powerful, worldwide movement aimed at generating awareness and driving action to end gender-based violence. The campaign is designed to underscore the urgent need for initiatives and policies that foster safer environments for all individuals, especially women. Each day represents an opportunity to reflect, educate, and initiate change across sectors—from homes to workplaces.
The First Day: November 25th
The campaign kicks off on November 25th, International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. This day emphasises the global scale of gender-based violence and the importance of taking proactive steps to address it. In workplaces, gender equity is directly linked to creating psychosocially safe environments—spaces where employees feel respected, supported, and empowered to raise concerns without fear of retaliation.
This day also marks the launch of my new book, Safe Spaces: Creating Psychosocially Safe Workplaces. The book aligns with the campaign’s goals by providing strategies and insights for leaders to create environments that prioritise employee well-being, address domestic and family violence (DFV), and promote gender equity.
The Last Day: December 10th
The campaign culminates on December 10th, which is International Human Rights Day. This day serves as a reminder that the right to live free from violence, discrimination, and harassment is a fundamental human right. It highlights that psychosocial safety is not just about compliance; it is about ensuring every employee—regardless of gender or background—has a safe, supportive space to thrive.
Why the 16 Days Matter to the Work I Do
The 16 Days of Activism reflects many of the themes I explore in my work. Through keynotes and corporate training sessions, I help organisations implement psychosocial safety frameworks that address key issues such as:
- Gender equity and closing the gender pay gap
- Increasing Employee Assistance Program (EAP) uptake by creating cultures where employees feel supported
- Supporting employees impacted by DFV, ensuring workplaces are spaces of safety and healing
- Building diverse, inclusive environments, where respect and collaboration thrive
A Call to Action
As we approach November 25th, I encourage companies and leaders to take meaningful action during this period. I’ll be delivering keynotes based on my book throughout the 16 Days of Activism, offering insights and strategies to create lasting change. This is a unique opportunity for organisations to position themselves as leaders in psychosocial safety and gender equity.
By the time the campaign concludes on December 10th, we should all be asking: What more can we do to create safe spaces in our workplaces?
Together, let’s use this November to start conversations, implement strategies, and foster workplaces that reflect the values of respect, empathy, and safety for all.
