A local community group is once again taking its antiviolence message out to the community this week as the nation recognizes a day devoted to action on violence against women. Friday, Dec. 6 marks the 24th anniversary of the murder of 14 women, and another 13 were wounded, at Montreal's Ecole Polytechnique. The victims were shot simply for being women.
Since 1991, the day has been recognized as the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women and this year the DOVE (Delta Opposes Violence Everywhere) committee is getting out to bring public awareness to the issue of violence against women.
DOVE is a committee of community agencies that work together to end violence in relationships. The committee includes representatives from
Deltassist, Delta police victim services and domestic violence units, the school district, the Boys and Girls Club, Delta Mental Health and the Ministry for Children and Families.
The committee's objective is to increase public awareness surrounding violence in any type of relationship and it works to reduce any gaps or duplications in services that may exist in the community.
To mark the day, DOVE committee members will be at various locations around the community.
On Friday, the committee is hosting displays during the lunch hour at several local high schools, including South Delta Secondary. As well, DOVE will be at the Save-on-Foods at Scottsdale Mall in North Delta that day.
On Saturday, the committee will set up at the Ladner Leisure Centre from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m.
How to help victim of violence:
Talk to her and help her open up. Be patient as it may take several times before she confides in you.
Be empathetic, attentive and respectful.
Listen to her and believe what she tells you. Do not judge or criticize.
Reassure her that the abuse is not her fault.
Help her to stay safe - use a code word to signal when she is in danger.
Call 911 for her if needed.
Encourage her to use local services that can offer specialist support and advice.
Encourage her to think about her safety and the needs of her children.
Focus on supporting her and building her self confidence.
