Family Violence Prevention Month kicked off today (Nov. 1) across Alberta.
The month of November is being recognized as Family Violence Prevention Month in Okotoks through a campaign by Rowan House Society, a Foothills-based women's shelter supporting communities across Southern Alberta.
The campaign launch was commemorated by the Town of Okotoks, with Mayor Tanya Thorn signing Rowan House Society’s Family Violence Prevention Month proclamation at the Okotoks Municipal Centre. The proclamation is a commitment to speak out against domestic violence and abuse while creating a culture of support for those impacted.
“As part of our ongoing mission, we will continue to offer services to ensure individuals experiencing domestic violence and abuse receive the care, support and safety they deserve," said Rowan House executive director Linette Soldan.
"We deeply appreciate the unwavering support, dedication and ongoing commitment from the Town of Okotoks to raise awareness of domestic violence and abuse in the community.”
Rowan House Society encourages the community to take part in the campaign however they can throughout the month, including wearing purple for International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women on Nov. 25 and sharing pictures on social media using the hashtag #safetotalk and tagging @RowanHouseEmergencyShelter.
"The colour purple symbolizes peace, courage and strength. Wearing a purple ribbon informs everyone that you are standing up against domestic violence and abuse. Additionally, it helps to raise awareness about domestic violence and abuse in our communities," explained Soldan.
People are also invited to join the Safe2talk conversation in Okotoks on Nov. 13 to gain further understanding on how to support those experiencing domestic abuse work.
According to Rowan House Society, domestic violence and abuse are at epidemic levels today, with rates of police-reported intimate partner violence and abuse experienced in rural areas being 75 per cent higher than in urban areas.
The organization, which provides support to the communities of Foothills County, Vulcan County and M.D. of Willow Creek, additionally sent proclamations to be signed by the towns of High River, Diamond Valley, Vulcan, Claresholm and Nanton.
According to the Government of Alberta, the province has the third highest rate of self-reported spousal violence among Canadian provinces.
In a Nov. 1 press release, Minister of Arts, Culture and Status of Women Tanya Fir committed to a 10-year action plan to end gender-based violence within Alberta.
"Through Budget 2024, we are investing over $19 million that will support the creation and implementation of this action plan. Additionally, we are investing over $100 million annually in critical programs and services that support survivors and help prevent and respond to gender-based violence," she stated.
“It will take a collective effort to put an end to gender-based violence, and our government is proud to work alongside survivors, non-profits and community leaders to secure a safer and brighter future for all Albertans."
Rowan House Society provides crisis intervention and long-term support through its seven core programs: the 24-hour support line, emergency shelter, children's program, preventative education, outreach program, court support program and safe-at-home program.
Learn more about Rowan House Society on the organization's website.
