On the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, the color orange is used to represent a brighter future, free from violence against women and girls. PHOTO: UN Women

November 25 was the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and an initiative of 16 days of activism against gender violence was launched.

This campaign, led by the UN Secretary-General and UN Women since 2008, aims to prevent and eliminate violence against women and girls around the world, calling for global action to increase awareness, promote advocacy and create opportunities for discussion on challenges and solutions.

“While this is a global campaign, it is important to highlight the urgency of the issue in Canada, and right here in North Grenville,” emphasized Mayor Peckford.

While gender-based violence can happen to anyone, women and girls are predominately vulnerable – including, young girls and older women, women who identify as lesbian, bisexual, transgender or intersex, migrants and refugees, indigenous women and ethnic minorities, or women and girls living with disabilities.

“Stopping gender-based violence is crucial to the well-being of not just the victim, but children who may be exposed, and other loved ones,” added Councillor Doreen O’Sullivan. “Abuse of women and girls often happens with people they know – including family members, and is not limited to physical or sexual abuse, but may also include psychological or emotional abuse.”

Residents experiencing violence in North Grenville have access to a dedicated professional at Leeds and Grenville’s Victim Services who can meet privately in person or over the phone and provide confidential feedback and assistance. Residents can also reach out to a primary care provider.    

North Grenville residents also have access to two shelters, Naomi House in Winchester, and Leeds and Grenville Interval House in Brockville.  

North Grenville has a number of counselling agencies both public and privately managed that offer trauma informed counselling for women, men and children.  

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