NIAGARA FALLS, ONTARIO, October 29, 2024– 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:
https://birchway.ca/event/woman-abuse-prevention-month-16-days-of-activism/