Minister Burke declares September 11-15 Sexual Violence Awareness Week

Joan Burke, Minister Responsible for the Status of Women, signed a proclamation declaring September 11-15 as Sexual Violence Awareness Week. She was joined by representatives from the Newfoundland and Labrador Sexual Assault Crisis and Prevention Centre who are coordinating a number of events throughout the week to help raise awareness about sexual violence.

"Sexual Violence Awareness Week is an important opportunity to educate the public that violence is unacceptable," said Minister Burke. "Supporting community groups, such as the Newfoundland and Labrador Sexual Assault Crisis and Prevention Centre is a primary objective for the government as part of the Violence Prevention Initiative. Only through collaboration can we begin to take action against violence."

"At the Sexual Assault Crisis and Prevention Centre we value partnerships with community groups and the provincial government," said Tracy Duffy, coordinator of the Newfoundland and Labrador Sexual Assault Crisis and Prevention Centre. "We hope that the community will become involved in Sexual Violence Awareness Week in order to learn more about the prevalence of sexual violence, and how to work together to raise awareness and education about prevention."

During Sexual Violence Awareness Week, the Newfoundland and Labrador Sexual Assault Crisis and Prevention Centre has organized a number of events including a public information session and open house, to learn about the centre�s essential services, a youth poster-making night, a healing ceremony for survivors of sexual violence, and an open-mic night. The week culminates with the annual Take Back the Night March and Rally on the steps of City Hall on Friday, September 15.

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador provides $70,000 annually to the Newfoundland and Labrador Sexual Assault Crisis and Prevention Centre as part of government�s commitment to building safe and secure communities.

In recognition of Sexual Violence Awareness Week, flags will be flown at half mast at the Confederation Building on September 12.

Further information on Sexual Violence Awareness Week activities can be obtained by calling (709) 747-7757.

Photo #1: Minister Joan Burke with staff from the Newfoundland and Labrador Sexual Assault Crisis and Prevention Centre, signing the proclamation declaring Sept. 11-15 to be Sexual Violence Awareness Week

Media contact: Michelle Hynes, Communications, (709) 729-6225

2006 09 11                                          9:30 a.m.