I Choose Me: Empowering Women Against Gender-Based Violence

Every hour, a woman in Alberta experiences some form of violence from an intimate partner. This abuse transcends every boundary—age, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and education level. It can impact anyone, from a powerful executive whose spouse constantly undermines her self-worth, to a mother whose financial choices are controlled by her partner. It affects teens, young women, and mothers alike, and it often doesn’t leave visible scars. But its effects—whether physical, psychological, or emotional—can be deeply damaging and long-lasting. The path to safety and healing is challenging, but it starts with choosing yourself.

Join Women United for I Choose Me: Empowering Women Against Gender-Based Violence, an impactful networking event designed to shed light on the complexities of gender-based violence and the paths available to healing.

• Hear about the movement against gender-based violence from local experts.
• Learn how abuse manifests in various forms.
• Explore practical strategies to safeguard yourself and your loved ones from the devastating effects of domestic violence.
• Network and connect, listen, and share experiences and ideas on the topic.

Together, we can empower women and girls in our community to rise above the barrier of gender-based violence to create a brighter future.

Meet Our Speaker: Liz John-West

Liz John-West has dedicated over 37 years to the social services field, beginning her career working with the houseless population and later supporting women being exploited on the streets of Edmonton. She has extensive experience managing women’s shelters, high-risk youth programs, and working with vulnerable families. Currently, she serves as the Executive Director of CEASE (Centre to Empower All Survivors of Exploitation & Trafficking), a role she has held for the past year. Throughout her career, addressing sexual exploitation has remained a central focus of her work.

Childcare: To ensure this event is as barrier–free and accessible as possible, United Way will offer on-site childcare to parents who wish to attend. If you require childcare during this event, please indicate during registration checkout.

Content Warning: This event addresses a highly sensitive topic, and onsite emotional support will be available for anyone who needs it throughout the event. We understand the importance of creating a safe and supportive environment while discussing these difficult issues.

To ensure Women United donations have the greatest impact on women and girls in our community, tickets are priced at $35 each to recover event costs. Ticket price includes a light meal.

Thank you to our Event Sponsor

Thank you to our In-Kind Sponsors