We Believe Survivors Day.

At Anova, we believe survivors. We believe in an inclusive world of shared power. We believe you deserve to be heard, supported, and be able to live a life free from violence. We believe that coming forward takes courage—and that courage should be met with compassion, accountability, and action.

On May 2, 2025, during the Hockey Canada Trial, E.M. took the stand for the first time as a victim, facing five hockey players and their legal teams, and it marked more than a moment in a courtroom. It sparked a national movement across the gender-based violence sector, and communities came together in solidarity. Survivors saw themselves reflected in E.M. Voices that had long been silenced grew louder. And for many, it became a turning point, and an affirmation that their stories matter.

But one year later, the work is far from over. Survivors and the organizations that support them continue to face critical gaps. Funding for services remains insufficient to meet growing demands across the country. Our provincial and federal ministries have more work to do to reform legal systems that cannot manage or appropriately handle cases of sexual violence. As well, there continues to be no response from Hockey Canada after more than six months of waiting.

Accountability and reform has stalled, and survivors are still waiting. That is why Anova is officially marking May 2 as “We Believe Survivors Day” each year moving forward.

This day is a call to action. A reminder that belief is not passive; it requires us to listen, to speak out, to advocate, and to push for change at every level. It means challenging rape culture when we see it, demanding accountability from powerful institutions, and refusing to accept silence or inaction as the status quo. Belief becomes action when we use our voices to create safer communities for everyone.

Join the Campaign

Below are many resources for folks to utilize in support of this campaign. Note, the colouring book resources are not Anova creations, and we thank these amazing creators for sharing these resources with survivors and supporters.
Hashtags: #WeBelieveSurvivors #IBelieveSurvivors #WeBelieve

• We Believe/I Believe Profile Pictures (zip file)
• We Believe/I Believe Social Media Banners (zip file)
• Learn-Act-Heal Resource Booklet (pdf)
• We Believe You Colouring Book by Office of Sexual Violence Support & Education at Ryerson University (pdf)
• Colouring Books for Survivors of Sexual Violence by Farrah Khan (site)
• Anova online resources (site)
• 519 Clothing Co X Anova We Believe Apparrel 

Together, we can continue building a future where survivors are not only heard—but believed.

How to Take Part any day a Survivor Needs You

Be Prepared for Disclosures:

Visit our guide on Responding to Disclosures of Sexual Violence.

Respect Boundaries

Some survivors may not want to discuss a 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.