It's a sad but true fact: one in four Canadian women has experienced abuse at the hands of their own partner. It's The Yorkton Partnership Against Violence Committee's goal to create a different reality.
On Monday, LaVern Dumka, Director of Shelwin House, and Michelle Goulden, Outreach Worker, made a presentation to Yorkton City Council, following which, the week of December 5-11 was declared "Battered Women's Awareness Week" in the city.
"We are asking for this proclamation as a means of emphasizing the need to address the violence that women experience from their partners in our own community and across Canada," said Dumka.
The week coincides with December 6, 1989 - the day when twenty five year old Marc Lépine entered the École Polytechnique in Montréal, Quebec. He then shot and killed fourteen women - claiming he was "fighting feminism" - before turning the gun on himself. December 6 has since been recognized as the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women.
In Yorkton, to commemorate the day and to raise awareness of the ongoing problem of violence, a special event has been planned: Strengthening the Peace Bond: A Candlelight Vigil on Saturday December 11 from 2-5 p.m. at the Sacred Heart High School.
On this day the Yorkton Partnership Against Violence Committee is organizing a Candlelight Vigil. The event will begin with a short candle lighting ceremony followed by guest speakers from the Yorkton and Regina area. "Cathy and Gail are two brave women that will be sharing their experiences as victims of stalking and their work in advocating for changes to Peace Bonds," detail Goulden and Dumka.
"James Morton with the RCMP will also be speaking about his experiences dealing with domestic violence and stalking cases and his efforts to support these women and encourage their fair treatment within the justice system." Refreshments will be served. A silver dollar collection will be taken, as well as a silent auction will be held with items up for bid by cash or cheque.
Funds generated will be donated to Regina resident Cathy Kaip to help offset costs associated with her legal bills accumulated in her 36 year fight against stalking.
The Yorkton Part-nership Against Violence Committee - comprised of members from Shelwin House Outreach and Victim Services, SIGN Family Violence Program, the RCMP and Sunrise Mental Health - is committed to raising awareness and knowledge of the effects of violence in the community.
Members of the general public are encouraged to join in the upcoming event residents gather to pay tribute to the women lost and continue efforts to bring light to the issue of domestic violence.
For further information, call Michelle at (306) 782-5181.
