Dr. K. Kellie Leitch, Minister of Status of women and Minister of labour, Salutes Canadians for Participating in 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Violence

OTTAWA, Dec. 10, 2013 /CNW/ - The Honourable Dr. K. Kellie Leitch, Minister of Status of Women and Minister of Labour, today marked the final day of 16 Days of Activism against Gender Violence by calling upon all Canadians to take action throughout the year.

"I hope the momentum of the past 16 days will inspire Canadians to take action each and every day," said Minister Leitch. "By talking with family, friends, and working within our communities to increase awareness, we can all be a part of the solution to end violence against women and girls."

The  16 Days of Activism Against Gender Violence began on November 25, with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, and concluded today with International Human Rights Day. The campaign marked December 6, Canada's National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women .

"Helping women and girls live violence-free lives is a priority for our Government," added Minister Leitch. "That is why we are holding offenders accountable for their actions, and supporting community-based projects across Canada that address violence against women."

The Harper Government is committed to supporting projects that yield concrete results for women and girls in Canada while strengthening families, communities, and the country. Federal government support for community-based projects has nearly doubled since 2006-2007, supporting more than 600 projects across the country. Since 2007, through Status of Women Canada, the Government has provided more than $62 million in funding specifically for projects to end violence against women and girls.

SOURCE: Status of Women Canada