Thursday, April 17, 2008

WomenAware

In continuing with resources for abused women, I would like to share some thoughts on this wonderful organization here in Montreal. For over 13 years Women Aware has been helping women who have been or are in abusive domestic relationships. I had the honor of participating in their 10th year anniversary celebrations. I can tell you that these people involved in this organization are there because they want to be there. They want to make a difference and are dedicated in helping other women. Women Aware even go into the schools to talk to students about abuse.

I was very touched when their director June Mitchell and President Theresa Forester and other members would come to the courthouse to support Kelly-Anne's family during the trial. Each time that I turned around and saw them sitting behind me, I felt love and encouragement from these ladies.

I suggest that you take a few minutes and look over their website. http://www.womenaware.ca/

Please pass this organization on to others who may benefit from their services.

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

Hi Doreen, I have taken note of both of these important links that you have posted recently.

Anon

Anonymous said...

I meant to write more yesterday...got sidetracked. I have taken note of the links you posted and will surely pass them on. In yesterday's Montreal Gazette, April 17, on page A18 there was a full-page ad for Brissonslesilence.com. It states, "In Québec, if nothing changes...1 out of every 3 women will be the victim of sexual assault during her lifetime." Further down on the page are statistics: In over 80% of cases, the victim knows the aggressor, and 70% of victims were assaulted in a private residence.

We know that women are still reluctant to call it 'rape' when it is their husband or partner and that many cases are not reported and therefore not reflected in these stats. The numbers they list for help are:

Crime Victims Assistance Center (CAVAC)
1-866-532-2822

Centres d'Aide et de Lutte contres les Agressions à Caractère Sexuels (CALACS)
514-529-5252 (Montreal)

Tel-jeunes
1-800-263-2266

I'm sure these are listed in the links you gave but it can't hurt to list them again.

At the bottom of the page is a banner with these words:
"Victims of sexual assault are often afraid of their agressors and of reprisals, and are wary of the reactions of their friends and family, and feel guilt and shame. These feelings may drive them to remain silent about the assault they suffered. To make it stop, the silence must be broken."

This applies to victims of domestic violence too.