Executive Council
September 14, 2009Partners 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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