Speak Out
Your voice is needed to end the violence.
Domestic violence and abuse continue to impact too many women and children. While shelters can provide protection and support, YOU can help build a future when our services will no longer be needed.
You can use your voice to create a cultural shift that will end violence against women for good… and it’s easier than you might think.
Here are a few ideas:
Women have always been each other’s greatest allies when it comes to dealing with abuse. Women’s shelters exist, for instance, because women in our community decided it was time to help shelter their sisters from the violence. As women, we need to continue to speak up for ourselves at work, at school, in our relationships. We also need to remind our girlfriends that they DESERVE to be treated with respect by their partners. Women can be abusive too. So when we learn about the “red flags” of abusive behaviour, we need to look for them not only in our partners but ourselves.
As a ally, you can play a significant role in ending gender-based violence. When you call out friends, colleagues, family members or even strangers on objectifying, demeaning or threatening behaviour, you are sending a strong message that everyone deserves respect. Your words and actions can help to create lasting change and equality in all areas of your community. Dr. Jackson Katz, one of our favourite “good guys”, talks about how you can make a lasting difference in society.
Youth ages 15-24 are at the greatest risk for dating violence. By making yourself aware of the “red flags” of abuse and raising awareness among your peers of the difference between healthy and abusive relationships, you can help to create a safer community for everyone. Teachers and other adult leaders can help the young people in their lives by modelling healthy behaviours and clearly explaining what healthy relationships look like. Not sure where to start? Consider inviting Birchway Niagara to speak to your class or group.
No one knows the serious impact of dating or domestic violence better than you. Consider sharing your story in writing or by speaking at an event so that our community continues to pay attention to this important issue. To get started, you can share your story with Birchway Niagara online or reach out to Amanda at 905-356-3933 ext. 240. You can choose how your story is shared (if you choose to share it at all) and whether you wish to remain anonymous.
