News release

Hundreds to Discuss Domestic Violence, Crime Prevention

Justice

Domestic violence impacts many Nova Scotians, which is why hundreds of government, community and police partners are attending Nova Scotia's 4th Annual Crime Prevention Symposium on Wednesday, March 28, in Halifax.

The theme for this year's symposium is Change is Possible: Innovative Community Responses to Domestic Violence. Participants will consider community and government responses to domestic violence, the critical role of prevention, and how to create partnerships to move forward.

"If we can prevent and reduce domestic violence, we will create stronger, healthier families and make our communities safer," said Justice Minister Ross Landry.

The symposium will feature Wambui Bahati performing her one-woman play I am Domestic Violence. Ms. Bahati will also perform later the same evening at the Spatz Theatre, 1855 Trollope St., from 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. The evening performance is open to the public to inspire discussion and further understanding of domestic violence.

"This symposium is an excellent example of the positive and beneficial ways that community groups and government can work together on an issue that concerns all of us," said Beatrice LeBlanc, chair of Nova Scotia's Advisory Council on the Status of Women. "This event will focus on our common goal of working towards ending domestic violence in our province."

Mr. Landry will also present the Minister's Awards for Leadership in Crime Prevention during the symposium. Awards will be presented in six categories to Nova Scotians who have been nominated for their outstanding work in preventing crime and making their communities a safer place.

For more information, visit www.gov.ns.ca/just .