NEWS RELEASE
WOMAN AND CHILDREN'S SHELTER OF BARRIE
************************************
November is Woman Abuse Prevention Month, and communities across Ontario are once again coming together to take a stand against gender-based violence.
The Women and Children’s Shelter of Barrie is leading the charge in this province-wide campaign, which aims to raise awareness and show solidarity with survivors of gender-based violence.
Throughout November, the Wrapped in Courage campaign is mobilizing Violence Against Women (VAW) shelters across Ontario to remind everyone that gender-based violence continues to be one of the most pressing human rights issues facing women and girls today.
Show Your Support: Wear Purple Scarf or Tie
We are calling on individuals, families, and communities to purchase and wear a Purple Scarf or Purple Tie to show their support for those who have endured violence in their homes, workplaces, and communities. The purple scarf has become a symbol of the courage it takes for survivors to seek safety, support, and healing.
Key Dates and Events
- Nov. 25: International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women
On this significant day, we will also mark the start of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. At Barrie City Hall, the Wrapped in Courage flag will be raised to demonstrate our collective commitment to ending gender-based violence and to show survivors that they are not alone in their journey. - Dec. 6: The National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women. At Knights of Columbus Hall we will hold a candle vigil to honour the lives of the women who have been murdered.
This flag-raising is not just a symbolic gesture but a call to action for everyone in our community to stand united against violence and work toward a safer, more equitable society for all.
Supporting Survivors in Our Community
The Women and Children’s Shelter of Barrie continues to provide essential services to survivors of gender-based violence and their children. However, gender-based violence is often an invisible issue, and many women and gender-diverse individuals may not know about the resources available to them. This month, we want to remind everyone that everyone has a role to play in addressing and preventing gender-based violence.
How You Can Take Action:
1. Start the Conversation – Talk with those around you about the critical role that shelters play in offering support and safety to survivors, especially in challenging times like the pandemic.
2. Wear Purple – Purchase your Wrapped in Courage purple scarf or tie and wear it proudly throughout November. Visit our online shop at www.barrieshelter.com/shop or email [email protected] to get yours.
3. Advocate for Change – Contact your municipal, provincial, and federal representatives to demand stronger commitments to end gender-based violence. Reach out to:
- MPP Doug Downey: [email protected] | 705-726-5538
- MPP Andrea Khanjin: [email protected] | 705-722-0575
4. Support the Shelter – Find out how you can contribute to the Women and Children’s Shelter of Barrie by volunteering or donating.
5. Raise Awareness on Social Media – Follow us on social media and share your photos and videos of the Wrapped in Courage flags across Ontario!
Help spread the message:
- Instagram: @wcs_barrie
- Twitter: @barrieshelter
Facebook: @WCSBarrie
6. Join Us on Nov. 25 – On the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, wear your purple scarf and share your support using the hashtag #WrappedinCourage.
Together, We Can Make a Difference
This November, as we reflect on the impact of gender-based violence in our communities, we ask that you take a stand. Your support helps ensure that survivors know they are not alone and that we, as a community, are committed to creating a world free from violence.
Thank you for your continued support in helping end gender-based violence across Ontario.
************************************
