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Executive Council
September 14, 2009

Partners Break the Silence on Sexual Violence

The Provincial Government and community partners are uniting to break the silence on sexual violence during Sexual Violence Awareness Week from September 14 to 18.

"Sexual violence is a widespread issue that can affect individuals, families and communities for generations," said the Honourable Kathy Dunderdale, Minister Responsible for the Status of Women and Lead Minister of the Violence Prevention Initiative. "Through the hard work and dedication of the staff and volunteers of the Newfoundland and Labrador Sexual Assault Crisis and Prevention Centre and other community and government anti-violence partners, I am confident that we are making important strides towards ending sexual violence in this province."

Under the theme United Voices Break the Silence, the Provincial Government and its partners are coming together to raise awareness about sexual violence. Events are planned throughout the province to draw attention to the issue of sexual violence.

The Newfoundland and Labrador Sexual Assault Crisis and Prevention Centre is one of over 30 community groups that partner with the Violence Prevention Initiative, the Provincial Government�s six-year, $10-million strategy to reduce violence in Newfoundland and Labrador. The centre provides support and essential services to victims of sexual violence and has a 24-hour crisis line (1-800-726-2743) that is accessible province-wide.

"At the Sexual Assault Crisis and Prevention Centre, we value our relationship with our partners," said coordinator Barbara Wadman. "Our centre is under constant demand as a resource for those who are dealing with the pervasive effects that result from sexual violence. We encourage everyone to support our mandate to end sexual violence by participating in our events. Together, we can continue to make a difference."

The centre has organized a number of events during Sexual Violence Awareness Week, including a public information session and open house, a youth poster-making night and a self-defense class. The week culminates with the 25th annual Take Back the Night March and rally on the steps of St. John�s City Hall on Friday, September 18. For further information on these activities, visit www.EndSexualViolence.com or call 709-747-7757.

In recognition of Sexual Violence Awareness Week, flags have been lowered at Confederation Building for today (Monday, September 14).

"Too often, incidents of sexual assault are never reported to police. This unfortunate reality is behind this year�s theme - United Voices Break the Silence," said Minister Dunderdale. "Sexual Violence Awareness Week is an opportunity for everyone to learn more about the realities of sexual violence, bringing us one-step closer to breaking the silence and making this province violence-free."

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Media contact:

Erin Molloy
Communications Specialist
Women�s Policy Office
709-729-6225, 693-7938
erinmolloy@gov.nl.ca
Barbara Wadman
Coordinator
Newfoundland and Labrador Sexual Assault Crisis and Prevention Centre
709-747-7757
coordinator@sexualassaultcentre.nf.net

2009 09 14                                                       11:05 a.m.
 


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