This year marks more than eight decades that the Elizabeth Fry Society of Greater Vancouver (EFry) has supported and advocated for vulnerable women, girls and children across Metro Vancouver. For more than eight decades, EFry has played a pivotal role in shaping policy, challenging stigma, and promoting systemic change to address the root causes of gender-based discrimination in the criminal justice system. Our growing list of programs and services have transformed the lives of countless individuals, offering hope, empowerment, and a path to a brighter future.

In conjunction with this significant milestone, EFry is celebrating its annual namesake campaign: EFry Week. Taking place during the second week of May, in the lead up to Mother’s Day, the campaign aims to bring attention to the high number of mothers who are criminalized and the ripple effect that incarceration has on their families.   

Building upon our 85-year legacy, the theme for EFry Week 2024 is Honouring the Past, Empowering the Future. This theme offers us a chance to reflect on our historic achievements and to look ahead to continued progress in advancing gender equality and social justice. It celebrates the resilience, strength, and achievements of the clients we serve and emphasizes the importance of collective action and solidarity in creating a more inclusive and equitable society. As we commemorate this anniversary, we invite all our supporters to join us in participating in EFry Week activities and events like #BlueFryday, running from May 6-10.