News Release Archive
FAMILY VIOLENCE PREVENTION WEEK--FEB. 11-17, 1996 ----------------------------------------------------------------- It's a simple question. But there is no simple answer. Why would anyone hurt someone they claim to love? They shouldn't. But unfortunately family violence continues to affect the lives of too many people. Statistics Canada says three in ten married women, one in four children and one in fourteen seniors deal with it each year. While research shows that 96 per cent of Nova Scotians are concerned about family violence there is a need to designate a specific time to place emphasis on ways to prevent it. As part of the goal to raise awareness of family violence and erase those disturbing figures Premier John Savage has proclaimed February 11-17, 1996 as the second annual Family Violence Prevention Week. The theme this year is "You Never Hurt The One You Love." Family Violence Prevention Week begins at 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, February 11 with the reading of a proclamation by Premier Savage. The premier will then participate in a bell-ringing ceremony at St. Paul's Anglican Church in Halifax. This will represent a "call to action" in efforts to prevent family violence. Similar ceremonies will take place throughout the province simultaneously. Law enforcement officers will also acknowledge the beginning of the week by turning on their sirens. Key events planned for the week include the release of the audio tape and guides, "Positive and Healing Stories of and for Women Survivors of Violence" on Monday February 12 at 11:30 a.m. at the Unitarian Church, 5500 Inglis Street Halifax. The tape and guides were produced by "Jane's Fund" - Jane Hurshman Memorial Fund. Another highlight will be the benefit performance for the Transition House Association of Nova Scotia of the play "Like A Little Candle" by Sheree Fitch which will be staged at the Sir James Dunn Theatre, Dalhousie Arts Centre at 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, February 13. Other events planned by local community groups for the week include open forums, the declaration of some areas as zero tolerance toward family violence, theatre performances, essay contests, production of a video and parent-child discussions. There is no secret ingredient for ending something as pervasive and shattering as family violence. Awareness of the issue is definitely the first step in recognizing its existence and leading to its demise. The second step is responding appropriately so the victim feels supported and believed. It's hoped all Nova Scotians will become more involved in the campaign against violence during Family Violence Prevention Week and keep this knowledge and commitment to end it with them forever. -30- EDITORS NOTE: For more information on events during Family Violence Prevention Week in the province call 902-424-4492 for a list of interagencies involved in activities. Contact: Judy Hughes, Coordinator, Family Violence Prevention Initiative 902-424-2079 (Phone) 902-424-0502 (Fax) jlw Feb. 08, 1996 9:50 a.m.