We are living a hopefully brief moment in history when women's emancipation is not only under scrutiny, but is being attacked by entitled white males who happen to lead a couple of influential world governments -- Russia and the United States. It's during times like these that it's essential to remind ourselves that grassroots initiatives remain the bedrock of hope and change within our communities.

I like to quote Canadian feminist and social activist Rosemary Brown during dark times like this; "We must open the doors and we must see to it they remain open, so that others can pass through."

Late October, news accounts that 26 year-old Nuseiba Hasan had been reported missing by a family member in February 2016 raised more than a few eye brows and questions. The missing woman was last seen alive at her family’s Flamborough property.

Hamilton police continue to investigate her disappearance and had been treating it as a homicide. What made this case so unusual is the fact that Hasan had been missing for a decade.

So, why report Hasan missing now? Safety. Someone who cared deeply for Hasan felt they were finally in a safe position to report Hasan’s disappearance.

I love good food! I also love cooking. Most people don't know that many, many years ago, I graduated from the Culinary Management Program at George Brown College. At that time, the campus was located on Augusta Street in the heart of Toronto's amazing Kensington Market. I went on to complete my apprenticeship and earned my red seal designation.

I often joke the reason I had five kids is because I never learned to cook small -- I cook big! My kids know that when we go on holiday, I will do whatever they want all day long, but once dinner time rolls around we have to have reservations at a restaurant that serves wonderful cuisine in a relaxing atmosphere sans televisions. It doesn't have to be expensive, it just has to be great.

While Woman Abuse Prevention Month rapidly draws to a close, the United Nations 16 Days of Activism against Gender Based Violence is ramping up its efforts to keep issues of gendered violence in our hearts, minds and actions.

This makes it the perfect time to look at how well the Canadian government is tackling the epidemic of violence against women and girls. After all, your international credibility is enhanced when your own house in order.

This week the United Nations Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) called on the federal, provincial and territorial governments to establish a comprehensive National Gender Equality Plan addressing the barriers to women’s equity in Canada.