THE MOOSE HIDE CAMPAIGN TAKING A STAND AGAINST GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE The Moose Hide Campaign is a powerful initiative aiming to end gender-based violence in Canada. Rooted in a deeply personal story and driven by a mission to create widespread change, this campaign has grown from a small grassroots movement to a national symbol of commitment to safety, respect, and equality. Founded in 2011 by Raven Lacerte and her father, Paul, the Moose Hide Campaign began along the Highway of Tears in British Columbia, where many Indigenous women have gone missing or been murdered. This tragic reality sparked a movement to address the pervasive issue of violence against women and children, particularly Indigenous women and girls. “The Moose Hide Campaign began as a small act of love and protection,” says Raven Lacerte, Co-founder of the Moose Hide Campaign. “My father and I wanted to honour the women in our lives and create a platform where men could take a stand against violence.” The campaign's symbol, a small square of moose hide, is worn as a pledge to take action against violence. It serves both as a conversation starter and a constant reminder of the commitment to ending gender-based violence. Each moose hide pin is considered medicine for a social ailment within our society, helping to heal the wounds caused by domestic and gender-based violence. Remarkably, each moose hide pin has been shown to spark five conversations about the issue, significantly raising awareness and encouraging others to get involved. The annual Moose Hide Campaign Day ceremony sees hundreds of thousands of participants from public, private, union, education, and government sectors showing their support. People across Canada are encouraged to wear the moose hide pin and participate in 30 events, fostering a collective commitment to ending gender-based violence. Additionally, participants are invited to fast in ceremony 2 0 on Moose Hide Campaign Day to deepen their commitment and E U resolve. S S I | 4 2 0 2 R The Story of the Moose Hide Campaign Video E B M SCAN THE QR CODE E T P E S
LIUNA Western Canada Sub-Region Indigenous Magazine 2024. Page 31 Page 33