DAY OF REMEMBRANCE AND ACTION ON VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN

Released on December 6, 1995

Joanne Crofford, minister responsible for the Status of Women, said today
that the Saskatchewan government is committed to working with communities
to eliminate all forms of violence against women.

Crofford asked Saskatchewan people to join her in acknowledging Dec. 6 as
the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women.
This day has been set aside to commemorate the murder of 14 young women
in Montreal in 1989.

"Many community groups and women's organizations will be holding events
today to raise awareness of violence against women. This is a time for
us to demonstrate our personal commitment toward building a culture of
safety, equality and justice for women and children," Crofford said.

"The government of Saskatchewan is committed to not only working to
eliminate violence, but also to addressing the needs of victims."

Crofford said that the Victims Services Program provides crisis-
intervention, advocacy and support for victims of crime and assists them
in their dealing with the justice system. As well, The Victims of
Domestic Violence Act, which is the first legislation of its kind in
Canada, provides new remedies for those dealing with domestic abuse.

Crofford said violence affects everyone and we all have a role to play in
eliminating it.

"Governments, communities, organizations and individuals, must continue
to work together to find solutions."

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For more information, contact:

Susan Dusel
Women's Secretariat
Phone: (306) 787-7414