FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Monday, November 2, 2015 5:33pm
(Ottawa) – Today, the Ottawa Coalition to End Violence Against Women (OCTEVAW), in partnership with the Ottawa Police Service, is launching the Shine the Light campaign to increase community awareness about violence against women and girls.
“Shine the Light is about engaging people in breaking the silence on violence against women. It encourages community members to build their awareness, and speak out about violence against women,” said Erin Leigh, event coordinator and Executive Director of OCTEVAW.
In 2014, there were 5,275 domestic violence and/or related incidents reported to the Ottawa Police Service. The vast majority of victims are women.
First started in London, Ontario in 2010, this is its fourth year the campaign is being held in Ottawa. The local initiative will engage with the City of Ottawa and local businesses on Elgin Street, Montreal Road, and the Wellington West Business Improvement Association to showcase the colour purple through light bulbs, posters, ribbons and window decals.
For the launch, Police Chief Charles Bordeleau and City Councillor Catherine McKenney will speak to highlight their commitment to the project. In addition, Professor Holly Johnson of the University of Ottawa will launch her research with survivors of violence against women and their experience with the Ottawa Police Service.
“We are pleased to partner with OCTEVAW on this important community issue,” said Ottawa Police Chief Charles Bordeleau. “Domestic violence continues to be a top priority for our Service. We want the community to see that it is not acceptable, not tolerated and there is help available.”
The campaign, which runs for the month of November, is part of ‘Women Abuse Prevention Month’ initiatives in Ontario.
Members of the community and media are invited to join us for the official launch on Wednesday, November 4th in the Councillor’s Lounge, Ottawa City Hall, located at 110 Laurier Avenue West from 5:30 pm- 6:30 pm.
Speakers will include:
- Chief Charles Bordeleau, Ottawa Police Service
- Councillor Catherine McKenney
- Dr. Holly Johnson, University of Ottawa
- Caroline Brunette, Comité Réseau d’Ottawa and Fem'aide
Erin Leigh, Executive Director, Ottawa Coalition to End Violence Against Women (OCTEVAW) will be the event host.
For more information about Shine the light campaign events, please see the Calendar.
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CONTACT:
Media Relations Section, Ottawa Police
Tel: 613-236-1222, ext. 5366
OCTEVAW
Erin Leigh, Executive Director
Tel.: 613-237-1000
Bailey Reid, Chair of OCTEVAW Public Engagement Committee
Tel.: 613-853-1033