It is important for neighbours, friends and family members to understand their role in family violence prevention within our communities, says Premier Robert Ghiz.
“I strongly encourage all Islanders to take time throughout the week to educate themselves on resources available to help end family violence on Prince Edward Island,” said Premier Ghiz.
Premier Ghiz proclaimed the week of Sunday, February 12 to Saturday, February 18 as Prince Edward Island’s Family Violence Prevention Week 2012.
Family violence prevention is the ongoing focus of the Premier’s Action Committee. With dedicated assistance from community partners, the committee has developed crucial resource information for anyone who is experiencing abuse or knows someone who is experiencing abuse. These resources and much more are available on the Premier’s Action Committee on Family Violence Prevention website at www.stopfamilyviolence.pe.ca.
In recognition of Family Violence Prevention Week 2012, Minister of Community Services and Seniors Valerie E. Docherty is inviting all Islanders to participate in the Third Annual Walk in Silence for Victims of Family Violence. The walk begins at noon on Wednesday, February 15, leaving from Province House and concluding at Charlottetown City Hall with a reception hosted by Mayor Clifford Lee. Members of the Mayor’s Purple Ribbon Task Force will participate in the walk. Islanders are invited to wear purple during this event, and throughout the week, in honour of family violence victims.
“Show your support for family violence victims and your desire to make a difference by walking with me on February 15,” said Minister Docherty.
As part of the week’s activities, the Premier’s Action Committee on Family Violence Prevention will present two town hall meetings that will provide information for neighbours, friends and families on how to respond to and help prevent violence in our communities. The meetings will take place Monday, February 13, at the Loyalist Lakeview Resort in Summerside between 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. and Thursday, February 16, at Murphy’s Community Centre in Charlottetown between 7 p.m. and 9 p.m.
For a detailed listing of Family Violence Prevention Week events happening across the Island, or for family violence prevention resources, visit www.stopfamilyviolence.pe.ca or phone 368-6712.