On September 24, EVA BC co-hosted a reception in Vancouver that brought together our long-time partner, the BC Lions, with other champions who have worked to make changes in their workplaces and communities. The reception was an opportunity to celebrate our work together – in high schools, workplaces and other communities – to show participants how to have the confidence and skills to Be More Than a Bystander. 

We were joined by the key architect of the “bystander” approach to gender-based violence, Dr. Jackson Katz. His continuing work on engaging men and championing gender equity carries simple timeless messages.  

Katz said, “We’re not anywhere near where our societies need to be, but the work that EVA BC and the BC Lions have been doing is exceptional to create change. These kinds of partnerships are possible, and everybody benefits.”  

EVA BC’s executive director, Ninu Kang, said, “Since EVA BC started to do this work, we have had nothing but an incredible relationship with the BC Lions. Every time we have something new, you step up and are there for us.” 

BC Lions’ Senior Vice President, Business, George Chayka said, “Our BC More Than a Bystander program is a proactive measure for helping to end gender violence and it takes our strong partnership and team commitment to make it happen.”