Schools Participate in Violence Awareness Week Activities

This is Violence Awareness Week (February 20-27) in schools throughout Newfoundland and Labrador. To reinforce the message that all forms of intimidation and violence are unacceptable, the Department of Education is providing schools in the province with material focusing on the theme, Find Your Voice, Not Violence.

“We must be persistent in our efforts to change attitudes towards violence, to recognize it is a crime, and to work with our children and youth to be leaders in eradicating all forms of violence,” said the Honourable Joan Burke, Minister of Education. “We encourage students, parents, teachers and the entire school community to speak out against violence, to use their voices, and to be firm in their commitment that violence and intimidation will not be tolerated in schools.”

As part of the Find Your Voice, Not Violence campaign, schools are being sent materials to support classroom activities, as well as posters, window clings, magnets, and brochures promoting the importance of violence intervention.

The school-based campaign is one of several initiatives being undertaken to complement activities around Violence Prevention Month, which was proclaimed on February 4 by the Honourable Susan Sullivan, Minister Responsible for the Status of Women and lead minister for the Violence Prevention Initiative (VPI).

“In February, the Provincial Government, in cooperation with its community partners, is raising awareness of violence and working to end this pattern of behaviour,” said
Minister Sullivan. “This particular initiative promotes awareness of the issues and provides resources to help inform students about violence and how to get help. Involving youth in the work towards violence prevention gives our province a better chance at a future free from violence.”

Minister Burke noted that as one of seven departments partnering in the VPI, the Department of Education is encouraging young people to speak up and to refuse to stand by when violence occurs. Students can be subjected to harassment or intimidation every day, and bystanders play a crucial role in its prevention. When a bystander or friend steps in, the bullying can be stopped within seconds.

The campaign also stresses that victims of violence need to stand up and to be heard. Students are encouraged to talk to a parent, teacher or other trusted adult if they are experiencing violence.

“Violence Awareness Week is a time for everyone to learn about the different types of violence, how it affects people, and how to eliminate it,” said Minister Burke. “Ending violence is about everybody working together, reaching out, and taking action.”

The VPI is the Provincial Government’s $12 million strategy to combat violence in this province. It is a multi-departmental, government-community partnership to find long-term solutions to violence against those most at risk in society, including women, children, youth, seniors, persons with disabilities, Aboriginal women and children, and others who are vulnerable to violence because of their ethnicity, sexual orientation or economic status.

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2011 02 21             9:45 a.m.