WOMEN’S HISTORY, REPRESENTATION & FEMINIST MEDIA

Animated series celebrates women trailblazers, including Canada’s first Black female lawyer (February 1, 2026): A new animated series, Rebelles, highlights Canadian women who challenged systemic barriers, including Violet King, the first Black female lawyer in Canada. The show uses AI-animated archival photos to tell compelling stories of women who faced discrimination. Producers say the series is meant to inspire young people. Source link → CBC News

GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE, FEMICIDES & MMIWG

Canadian woman’s remains found in 1985 linked to suspected serial killer in Florida (February 2, 2026): DNA analysis identified remains found in Florida as Jeanette Marcotte. Her remains were discovered with those of another woman believed to be linked to serial rapist John Crutchley. Investigators believe Crutchley may be connected. Source link → Canadian Press

Hanes: Five Quebec women were killed in January (February 2, 2026):
Quebec experienced five femicides in January, all involving intimate-partner violence. The article highlights systemic failure. Advocates warn femicide remains predictable and preventable. Source link → Montreal Gazette

Women’s march in Medicine Hat will bring awareness to MMIWG (February 2, 2026): A new march raises awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. Organizer Janice Randhile is a survivor. The event calls the community to action. Source link → CJWE

Quebec government touts progress on conjugal violence prevention despite 6 femicides in 2026 (February 4, 2026): Officials say 96% of recommendations from a violence report were implemented. Advocates argue femicide rates remain alarming. Shelters face capacity issues. Source link → City News

SEXUAL ASSAULT CASES & TRIALS

Start of Frank Stronach’s sex assault trial in Toronto stalls as lawyer argues complainants possibly coached (February 5, 2026): A series of delays occurred in Frank Stronach’s sexual assault trial due to new disclosures and concerns around witness preparation. Charges span five decades. Multiple complainants are protected under publication bans. Source link → CBC News

Vancouver doctor charged with sexually assaulting teens (February 3, 2026): A Vancouver doctor faces charges for sexual assaults on two teens. Police believe more victims may come forward. Source link → City News

Charges stayed in Meadow Lake sexual assault case (February 5, 2026): Two Edmonton men initially charged had their charges stayed. The Crown may revive the case. Source link → CTV News

RCMP arrests fourth youth in hockey hazing sexual assault case (February 6, 2026): A fourth youth was arrested. Investigators say more victims may exist. Source link → RCMP

POLICY, ADVOCACY & GENDER EQUITY

Transparency is key in addressing pay equity in N.B. (February 4, 2026): Advocates say pay transparency legislation is needed to reduce discrimination. Measures include banning salary-history questions and requiring salary ranges. Source link → Telegraph Journal

 Jolin-Barrette denies being paternalistic over Quebec constitution (February 4, 2026): Women’s groups criticize proposed abortion wording in Quebec’s constitution. The minister insists rights would be protected. Source link → Montreal Gazette

Poilievre governing council stacked with corporate lobbyists (February 4, 2026): Half the Conservative council consists of corporate lobbyists, some with anti-abortion ties. Critics say this contradicts messaging of supporting working-class Canadians. Source link → Breach Media

Slow pace of plan to prevent violence against Indigenous women (February 6, 2026): Only 10% of NB’s MMIWG response plan has been implemented. Officials cite lack of resources. Source link → CBC News

HEALTH & MENOPAUSE

Shedding shame around menopause (February 3, 2026): Experts and creators of Small Achievable Goals discuss breaking stigma around menopause. Media representation is improving support for women. Source link → CBC News

Gaps in menopause care push Canadians to pay out of pocket (February 4, 2026): Women turn to private clinics due to long wait times and dismissed symptoms. Experts warn of unregulated providers. Source link → CBC News

SPORTS & GENDER EQUALITY

Gender equality at the Milano-Cortina Olympics (February 6, 2026): Women will make up 47% of participants, the highest in Winter Games history. Advocates say progress influences broader equity in sports. Source link → CBC News

POLICING, INDIGENOUS RIGHTS & SYSTEMIC FAILURES

Death of First Nations teen triggers watchdog investigation (February 6, 2026): A teen’s death in Smithers sparks investigation into RCMP response. Advocates say patterns reflect Highway of Tears failures. Source link → The Tyee

SEXUAL ASSAULT CARE & SUPPORT

Central Alberta clinic pioneers new sexual assault care model (February 8, 2026): A Red Deer clinic provides private, trauma-informed sexual assault support outside ERs. The program reports 100% satisfaction. Source link → CBC News