Government of Canada marks 16 Days of Activism against Gender Violence in Atlantic Canada

OTTAWA, Dec. 4, 2012 /CNW/ - The Honourable Rona Ambrose, Minister of Public Works and Government Services and Minister for Status of Women, today called on all Canadians to join the worldwide 16 Days of Activism against Gender Violence while highlighting government actions to address gender-based violence in Atlantic Canada.

"Our Government recognizes the need for Canadians to come together and take action that reduces and prevents violence against women and girls in all its forms, wherever it occurs," said Minister Ambrose. "That is why the Government of Canada is proud to support projects across Canada, including in Atlantic Canada, that help communities address gender-based violence."

For example, the Second Story Women's Centre in Nova Scotia is receiving $296,377 for a 36-month project to address violence against women and girls along the south shore in Lunenburg County and neighbouring Queens County. A community plan is being developed to address gender based violence, particularly sexual assault. This project also engages men and boys as part of the solution.

"We are pleased to receive the Government of Canada's support for this project that will help address the challenges and barriers which limit efforts to prevent gender- based violence in our communities, particularly sexual assault," said Ms. Anne-Marie Sheppard, Board Co-Chair, Second Story Women's Centre. "We are pleased that men and boys will also be engaged because everyone has a role to play."

The 16 Days of Activism against Gender Violence commence on November 25, with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, and conclude on December 10 with International Human Rights Day. The campaign also observes significant dates such as December 6, Canada's National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence against Women.

The Government of Canada is committed to supporting projects that yield concrete results for women and girls in Canada while strengthening families, communities and the country. Through Status of Women Canada, the government's support for community-based projects has nearly doubled since 2006-2007, from $10.8 million to close to $19 million, its highest level ever. Since 2007, more than $54 million in funding has been approved for projects that seek to address violence against women and girls.

SOURCE: Status of Women Canada