woman abuse

The Rainy River District is again shining the light on woman abuse.

November is Woman Abuse Awareness and Prevention Month, and Riverside Health Care, with the Rainy River District Women’s Shelter of Hope, is promoting the Shine the Light campaign.

It is a campaign that raises awareness and promotes an end to woman abuse and gender-based violence.

It was first developed by the London Abused Women’s Centre in London, Ontario and has since expanded to other communities in Ontario.

Jacquee Loerzel, a community and family counsellor at Riverside Community Counselling Services, says it is an important initiative for the district.

“It’s an ongoing issue in our area, and it’s important that we continue to have the conversations and continue to shine a light on this ever-present issue that we continue to face in our own community,” says Loerzell.

The campaign was formally recognized at the Fort Frances Civic Centre on Thursday with a flag-raising ceremony.

Mayor Andrew Hallikas also proclaimed November as Woman Abuse Awareness and Prevention Month in the community.

“Only by standing together can we eliminate women abuse,” says Hallikas.

“This is an issue that should be a priority for all of us. Every woman and child has the fundamental right to live in safety and security. The Town of Fort Frances officially supports and participates in the Shine the Light on Women Abuse campaign,” says Hallikas.

There are other events associated with the campaign.

Loerzel says campaign posters are being distributed throughout the community to help promote awareness and show support.

The Pink Parasol Tea Room will host a tea and scones fundraiser on Thursday, November 13, from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

November 15 is Wear Purple Day, which encourages the public to wear purple to spark important conversations about ending violence against women and gender-based violence.

“Campaigns like Shine the Light remind us that community involvement plays a vital role in creating change,” says Loerzel.

“When we wear purple, we show survivors that they are seen, supported, and not alone. It’s a small gesture with a powerful message that together, we can help build safer, more compassionate communities.”

For more information about the Shine the Light campaign or to obtain posters, contact Riverside Community Counselling Services at 807-274-4807 (ext. 1).

To learn more about the campaign, visit lawc.on.ca/shine-the-light-on-woman-abuse-campaign, or explore additional education on gender-based violence at stayingisntchoosing.ca.