RAISING AWARENESS ON VIOLENCE

Released on May 4, 2001

Saskatchewan people are being encouraged to show their support for a

violence-free society by recognizing Purple Ribbon Awareness Week May 7th

to 13th.



Saskatchewan Purple Ribbon Awareness Week is held annually by the

Saskatchewan Battered Women's Advocacy Network (SBWAN) to raise awareness

about violence against women and encourage community support for ending

violence.



"This week encourages communities, families and individuals to show

commitment to preventing violence and acting to eliminate violence,"

Minister Responsible for the Status of Women Doreen Hamilton said. "The

Government of Saskatchewan is working with community groups such as SBWAN

and others to address violence through innovative legislation, funding of

shelters and transition houses, and other on-going programs and services."



These include funding for sexual assault counsellors, programs for

batterers and prevention of violence through education in schools.



"As Mother's Day approaches, let us remember not all families are safe

places to be in," Saskatchewan Battered Women's Advocacy Network member

Kelly Diebel said. "This week is dedicated to the lives of the women whose

voices can no longer be heard, to the survivors who have shown such

courage, strength and wisdom, and to the believers who support the right to

live safely with dignity and without fear."



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For more information, contact:



Neena Saxena Kelly Diebel

Women's Secretariat SBWAN

Regina Regina

Phone: (306) 787-7012 Phone: (306) 757-7879