January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, a time to recognize the urgency of a cancer that is highly preventable but remains the fourth most common cause of cancer death among women worldwide. Tragically, more than 90% of these deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries – but we have the power to change that RIGHT NOW.
CANADA MUST ACT
We have an opportunity for a collective push for Canada to invest in Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance. Doing so will help prevent 1.5 million deaths over the next five years through the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine.
HPV, a common virus, is the main cause of cervical cancer. While we don’t have a cure for cancer yet, the HPV vaccine is the first real chance in history to eradicate a cancer. We are talking about a world-changing moment that will save millions of women’s lives – but only if we act now.
WHY NOW?
Gavi recently announced that a summit will be held in March where countries will announce their pledges to this lifesaving mechanism. Since July, we’ve all been calling on Canada to be a leader in global immunization and contribute its fair share by making a strong pledge. Time is now running out.
Canada needs to step up – and we need every single one of you to push hard to make this a reality. Together, we can make sure Canada invests at least $720 million in Gavi by the summit and help create a future where cervical cancer is no longer a threat.
Canada’s Parliament may be on hold and poised for a new Prime Minister and upcoming election, but the government can still make meaningful commitments for the lives of millions. Global health can’t wait.
👇 TAKE ACTION NOW 👇
1. email the Minister
Email International Development Minister Ahmed Hussen (ahmed.hussen@parl.gc.ca) to let him know that this Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, Canada must provide its fair share to global immunization including by improving access to the HPV vaccine. We must step up and announce an investment of at least $720 million in Gavi.
You can find more details on why immunization is a crucial component of global health (which is, in turn, a crucial component of global stability and prosperity) in our #ForOurFuture campaign page.
Remember to use the EPIC model to help draft your email, and don’t be afraid to make it personal, connecting domestic experience to our global advocacy! This is a critical opportunity to remind the Minister that Canadians care about global health and the lives of women worldwide!
2. use your voice on social media
Raise awareness in your networks and with decision-makers through your social media channels! Make sure to include the graphic below and tag the Minister of International Development.
Did you know that with the current effective HPV vaccine, eliminating #CervicalCancer is now actually possible? It would be the first EVER cancer to be eradicated and save millions of women 🤯
But we need action and resources to do it. This Cervical Cancer Awareness Month let’s show the world that Canada cares.
Minister Ahmed Hussen: Canada must invest at least $720 million in @Gavi NOW!
