NEWS RELEASE
BIRCHWAY NIAGARA
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Every November, communities across Ontario come together to recognize Woman Abuse Prevention Month. It is a month dedicated to highlighting the prevalence of gender-based violence and the importance of supporting survivors by providing safe spaces, support, and the resources necessary to rebuild their lives. It is also a time to talk about the role that everyone plays in ending the cycle of violence.
According to the Ontario Association of Interval and Transition Houses (OAITH), 52 victims of femicide* have already been reported between November 26, 2023 and September 30, 2024. During the same period last year, 46 femicides had been reported. This is a trend that cannot continue and why Birchway Niagara is asking individuals and organizations in Niagara to call for change and for safer communities.
Many of members of our community have already taken steps to show their support during Woman Abuse Prevention Month by purchasing an Allied Against Abuse Daily Raffle ticket in support of Birchway Niagara. By purchasing over 4,000 tickets, which promise holders the chance to win EVERY DAY in November, Niagara’s allies have raised over $40,000 to support local domestic violence services. Birchway Niagara is grateful for the incredible donations—over $10,000 in prizes—from local businesses and individuals who remind us of the collective strength of our community in the fight against domestic violence.
Another way that individuals can show that they are allies in ending gender-based violence is to participate in the annual Wrapped in Courage campaign. The concept is simple: Wear a purple scarf throughout November to show survivors that they are not alone. While simple, this gesture can spark important conversations about intimate partner violence at a time when it has never been more important.
Across Ontario, jurisdictions, including the Niagara Region, have declared intimate partner violence an epidemic. As the province of Ontario considers doing the same with their consideration of the Intimate Partner Violence Epidemic Act (Bill 173, now in committee), representatives from women’s shelters from across Ontario will head to Queen’s Park in late November to remind provincial representatives of the continuing importance of dedicating resources toward the prevention of gender-based violence and resources to help survivors.
To learn more about events that will be taking place during Woman Abuse Prevention Month, please visit Birchway Niagara’s event page.
*OAITH's femicide definition includes a gender-based killing of a woman, child, trans woman, 2-Spirited Person, or gender non-conforming individual where a man has been charged in relation to the death
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