Following two presentations at Monday evenings regular meeting of Yorkton City Council, members of council voted in favor of proclaiming this week as Anti-bullying Week in Yorkton and the week of December1-7 as Violence Awareness Week.
With numerous activities planned, his week marks the second annual initiative for St. Mary's School to promote anti-bullying, working towards peaceful schools and zero tolerance for bullies.
November 17-23 is Bullying Awareness Week across Canada. Learn more by visiting: www.bullyingawarenessweek.org.
Representatives from Shelwin House were also on hand Monday to seek council's support for putting a stop to violence - an initiative that goes hand-in-hand with bullying.
Violence Awareness Week "encompasses the tragedy that occured December 6, 1989 when a lone gunman shot and killed 14 female engineering students at a University in Montreal," spoke LaVern Dumka, Director of Shelwin House to council. "In 1991, December 6 was designated the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence against Women.
"It is with sadness that we report that the services of Shelwin House are required more each year. Violence knows no boundaries. It affects people of all walks of life. Statistics Canada in 1994 reported that one on four women is abused by their partner. This report is only from reported cases. Imagine counting the people in this room and stopping at every fourth individual? We believe that education, community action and awareness are key to starting at a very young age to learn that violence is never acceptable and that there are alternatives to violence."
During the week Shelwin House staff will be visiting local agencies to seek support in hopes of reaching a goal of zero tolerance for violence. "We will be delivering a basket of treats with our Shelwin House calendar and pamphlets," adds Tanya Parsons, Shelwin House Outreach worker.
There will also be an informational display set up in the Yorkton Public Library, complete with two opportunities to view a video entitled "It's not like I hit her." This will be shown on December 3 from 1-2 p.m. and on December 5 from 1-2 p.m.
Shelwin House also plans to partner with local schools to host a special candle light vigil, the date and time of which have not yet been determined.
"The students are our future leaders. It is paramount that knowledge is brought to the younger generation about the many forms of violence. The event will be open to the public and free of charge. By attending, you can show your support."
To learn more call (306) 783-7233.
