Minister Pam Parsons Proclaims September 10-16 as Sexual Violence Awareness Week
Press Release
September 11, 2023
The Honourable Pam Parsons, Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality has proclaimed September 10-16, 2023, as Sexual Violence Awareness Week in Newfoundland and Labrador.
Sexual Violence Awareness Week is an opportunity to raise public awareness about sexual assault, and educate communities and individuals on how to prevent sexual violence. The Provincial Government works closely with community partners and violence prevention advocates, including End Sexual Violence NL, to reduce all forms of violence, abuse and neglect in Newfoundland and Labrador.
Gender-based violence, including sexual violence, is a significant and preventable barrier to gender equality. In August 2023, Women and Gender Equality Canada announced $700,000 in funding to support crisis hotlines in Newfoundland and Labrador. Crisis hotlines are a lifeline for survivors of gender-based violence, and are critical support services.
This funding is part of the $30 million investment over five years by the Government of Canada to support crisis hotlines throughout the country. It also builds on the historic launch of the November 2022 National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence. This 10-year plan is a concrete step towards fulfilling a long-standing commitment of federal, provincial and territorial governments working together for a country free of gender-based violence, that supports victims, survivors and their families.
Additionally, Budget 2023: Your Health. Our Priority. provided $241,500 for the Indigenous Violence Prevention Grants Program to support Newfoundland and Labrador’s Indigenous governments and organizations in their efforts to prevent violence against Indigenous women and children and 2SLGBTQQIA+ individuals.
To learn more about Sexual Violence Awareness Week and upcoming events, visit End Sexual Violence NL on www.facebook.com/EndSV.
Quotes
“Violence of any kind will not be tolerated in our province, and ending it is a shared responsibility. The Office of Women and Gender Equality works closely with our community partners, the Department of Justice and Public Safety, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary, to prevent gender-based and sexual violence, and to help individuals experiencing it.”
Honourable Pam Parsons
Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality and MHA for the District of Port de Grave
“Due to low reporting rates and social discomfort, sexual violence and gender-based violence are often labeled ‘crimes of silence’. A goal of Sexual Violence Awareness Week is to shine a light on the various forms of gender-based violence. Events held during this week are meant to generate discussion, promote action and lend support to anyone who has been impacted by sexual violence.”
Sandra McKellar
Executive Director, End Sexual Violence NL
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