Submitted
Women and children need people to be aware that violence against women is a reality. You can help to create awareness about this issue by wearing a purple ribbon and encouraging others to wear one during Prevention of Violence Against Women Week which began Sunday, April 13, 2014.
Don't let it stop there – keep the campaign going and show your support by wearing a purple ribbon every day. Everyone can wear a ribbon and everyone can help spread the message that violence of any kind is unacceptable. Men and women are both encouraged to support this campaign.
The colour purple has been a predominant colour throughout the women's movement, and the purple ribbon has long been a symbol representing the prevention of violence against women in many parts of the world. Get your ribbon at any one of the event organizers – Ankors; Cranbrook Women's Resource Centre; Kootenay Haven Transition House; Summit Services and local businesses. Look for the purple buckets; wear a ribbon; check out the display along Baker Street the week of April 14; and help be the change you want to see.
1. Take the time to educate yourself about violence. Learning about the various types of violence experienced by women will help you recognize violence if it happens to you or someone close to you. Learn what resources are available within your community for victims of violence.
2. Do not be afraid to call the behaviour what it actually is—violence.
3. Pay attention to the relationships of those close to you. Let those close to you know that you are available if they need you.
4. Have the courage to look inward and examine your own behaviours, attitudes and biases regarding violence against women.
5. Teach your children how to solve problems and express anger without harming others. Teach your children that violence in ALL relationships is unacceptable.
6. Show the young people in your life, through words and actions, how to treat women with fairness, equality and respect.
7. Women are NOT to blame for violence committed against them. Blaming women only allows violence to continue.
8. Do not laugh the next time someone tells a joke that degrades or exploits women. Not going along with the joke sends the message that degrading and exploiting women is unacceptable.
9. Join an organization dedicated to preventing violence against women.
10. Stand up and take action when you witness violence or suspect violence is taking place. Get help for yourself if you use violence to control someone in your life. You can help stop violence against women!
If you are experiencing an abusive relationship and want to talk or get help, call 1-800-200-3003.
Violence is rooted in inequality. Help us create equal ground to prevent it.