The Premier’s Action Committee on Family Violence Prevention Youth Engagement Working Group is inviting students to submit entries to a storyboard contest for Family Violence Prevention Week 2013, says Valerie E. Docherty, Minister Responsible for the Status of Women.
“Being a victim of violence is never a choice,” says Minister Docherty. “Others, however, always have the choice to use violence or not. When a classmate, family member, boyfriend or girlfriend is abusive, he or she is choosing to use unhealthy ways to communicate or express anger, frustration or disappointment.”
Island students of grades 7, 8 and 9 are invited to submit an 8.5” x11” storyboard, single or double-sided, illustrating the theme: “Violence is a Choice. Choose Better.”
Dr. Phillip Smith, chair of the Premier’s Action Committee on Family Violence Prevention, encourages students to take some time to learn about healthy relationships and the contest theme.
“It's important to know what defines a healthy relationship,” says Smith. “Ask yourself, do I know what a healthy relationship looks like? It’s equally important to recognize an abusive relationship, and to know where you or a friend can turn for help before things get worse.”
Storyboard designs will be judged based on depiction of theme, attractiveness and creativity. All storyboards meeting contest guidelines will be featured in an online gallery at stopfamilyviolence.pe.ca. First prize for the top entry is $50 for the artist and $200 for the artist’s school or organization. A People’s Choice Award worth $50 for the winning artist will be determined based on online voting. Entries must be mailed or emailed with a signed, completed entry form and received by Friday, February 15, during PEI Family Violence Prevention Week February 10 to 16.
For full contest details and the 2013 Family Violence Prevention Week campaign, visit stopfamilyviolence.pe.ca or contact (902) 368-6712.
For information about healthy relationships and where to get help visit stopfamilyviolence.pe.ca/teens.