Released on April 30, 1999
To raise awareness about the unacceptability of violence againstwomen, the Minister Responsible for the Status of Women Joanne
Crofford announced today that May 3 to May 9 has been proclaimed
Purple Ribbon (Violence Against Women) Awareness Week in Saskatchewan.
"This week encourages the public to demonstrate its commitment to
preventing violence and act to eliminate violence," Crofford said.
"The Government of Saskatchewan is committed to working with
communities and families to address this issue through legislation,
shelters and transition houses and other initiatives."
The provincial government provides $6.1 million annually to fund
shelters, sexual assault counsellors, outreach programs and victims'
services. The Victims of Domestic Violence Act was the first
legislation of its kind in Canada, and enables authorities to provide
an emergency response for victims of domestic violence.
"Other examples include the government's work with district health
boards to provide alternatives to violence' programs for men,
priority housing placement for individuals in violent situations and
school curriculum that focuses on the prevention of violence,"
Crofford said.
"Government will continue to address the issue of violence to
promote family and community relationships free of violence and
abuse."
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For more information, contact:
Neena Saxena
Women's Secretariat
Regina
Phone: (306) 787-7012
Julie Johnson
Saskatchewan Battered Women's Advocacy Network
Regina
Phone: (306) 757-7879
Purple ribbons are available from SBWAN at cost.