We Believe Survivors Day – In-person & Virtual
Say #WeBelieveSurvivors on Verdict Day Awareness and Solidarity
As the verdict in the Hockey Canada sexual assault trial is delivered in the coming days, individuals and organizations across the country are joining together in a national day of action to say: #WeBelieveSurvivors.
We invite you to join us in public solidarity for EM, who courageously testified in court; for the countless others who could not come forward; and for all survivors who are watching this moment unfold while carrying their own experiences of violence.
No matter the verdict, we support and believe survivors. Let’s create space online, in the community, and in our institutions to show survivors that they are not alone.
How to Take Part on Verdict Day — or Any Day a Survivor Needs You
Practice Community Care
Check in with the people in your life and ask what they need. Support might involve sending a gentle message, dropping off a coffee, offering quiet company, or not talking at all.
Hold space without expectations.
Be Prepared for Disclosures: Visit our guide on Responding to Disclosures of Sexual Violence.
Respect Boundaries
Some survivors may not want to discuss the trial or sexual violence.
That’s okay. Survivors do not owe anyone education or explanations.
Commit to learning on your own and challenging myths in your circles.
Join the National #WeBelieveSurvivors Campaign
On the day of the verdict — and every day — show your support:
Online Actions
- Post a message of support using the hashtags #WeBelieveSurvivors or #IBelieveSurvivors
- Take a selfie with a sign: “I believe survivors because…”
- Repost graphics, resources, and healing tools from our Social Media Campaign Plan
Community Care Events
- Host a “Self-Care Crafternoon” where people can gather, make art, and be in community without pressure.
- Screen a film, hold a quiet space, or simply open your doors for drop-in care
- Use the free “We Believe You” colouring book by emailing: farrah.khan@ryerson.ca
Join or Host an In-Person Action
- Attend a local rally, march, or courthouse gathering
- Join a public vigil, speakout, or community circle.
- Light a candle or place signs of support outside your office or building
Why It Matters
This trial is not just about one incident, it reflects larger systems of rape culture, institutional silence, and the impossibly high standards placed on survivors in court.
Let’s make sure the public narrative doesn’t stop at the verdict.
Let’s flood our communities with messages of love, support, and accountability.
We believe survivors.
We believe EM.
We believe in building a world where survivors are supported in courtrooms, classrooms, locker rooms, and everywhere.
Stay tuned for information regarding London’s #WeBelieveSurvivors Rally! We encourage you to organize in your community too!