Violence against women and children exists in everyday life in all societies. It takes many forms in our communities.
Canada has some of the most thorough and advanced laws in the world to protect women and children. Yet violence against them is still considered a major problem.
The goal of Domestic Violence Prevention Month, observed each November, is to raise awareness and inform the public of the consequences of domestic violence and the importance of standing up against it.
“Domestic violence is an extremely serious issue,” says a statement from Flin Flon’s Women’s Resource Centre. “It can have a huge range of consequences if it is not dealt with, and in some cases leads to death.”
Manitoba’s Domestic Violence Prevention Strategy includes a six-point plan. The six points are categorized as cyberstalking awareness; a campaign carrying the theme “without help, abusive relationships only get worse”; a leading-edge website; domestic violence death reviews; speedy counselling for families in crisis; and legal protections from domestic violence.
“No one deserves to live through an oppressed cycle of violence – people should be able to live freely and relationships are about loving each other,” says the Women’s Resource Centre. “Not making the other person’s life miserable.”
The centre encourages citizens of the area to join the Purple Ribbon campaign currently underway. Ribbons, buttons and information dealing with domestic violence will be available at public displays.
The centre invites anyone with questions to contact its staff at 204-681-3105.
– Compiled from a Women’s Resource Centre news release
