Prevention of Violence Against Women Week
April 22-28, 2007

Message from Hon. Ida Chong
Ministry of Community Services and Minister Responsible for Seniors' and Women's Issues

As we mark Prevention of Violence Against Women Week, I urge every British Columbian to join me in the effort to end violence against women.

Violence happens far too often – in homes, schools, cities, towns and villages across B.C. People are most often reluctant to speak out, considering it a private matter. But something that so profoundly affects our society is not a private matter – when women who live in fear and children who are exposed to violence are at greater risk of health and emotional challenges later in life.

Violence is a learned behaviour – and therefore preventable. Ending violence is everyone’s responsibility – and we can begin by raising awareness about the issue at home, in the workplace, at school, and in our communities. Our government is producing a series of “Help Hope & Healing” brochures designed to raise awareness, educate people about the signs of abuse, and make sure that women are aware of the services available to them.

We all have the right to live violence free. To make sure every woman in B.C. can enjoy this right, we must all take responsibility for the solution.