Campaigns in Chatham-Kent have kicked off to mark a month dedicated to creating awareness and ending abuse towards women.
November marks Woman Abuse Prevention Month in Ontario. The Chatham-Kent Women's Centre held a tree lighting ceremony Thursday night, as part of their Shine Your Light Against Domestic Violence campaign.
Executive Director Karen Hunter said this month acts as a reminder to "take action" on abuse and inequality. As part of the campaign, businesses, organizations, and residents are encouraged to display a purple light that will shine outdoors.
"Purple is a symbol of courage, survival, and honour," said Hunter. "It has come to symbolize the fight to end women abuse."
The Chatham-Kent Women's Centre is also involved in another campaign this month called, Wrapped In Courage, which is in partnership with the Ontario Association of Interval Transition Houses.
"We sell our purple scarves and ask people to wear them for the month of November," she said.
Although November is formally recognized as ending violence against women, Hunter said the goal is to really end domestic violence altogether.
"The focus is on women but certainly to have a healthy community, we want to end violence against women, children and men," she said.
The centre does have a couple of upcoming events scheduled in November. One of which is the 40th Anniversary Gala at Links of Kent on November 10. Hunter said tickets are still available for those who are interested. There is also the annual luminary event at the end of the month that happens outside of the women's shelter on Sandys Street in Chatham. Further details about events and the centre can be found on their website.
Women in crisis are encouraged to call their hotline at 519-354-6360 or 1-800-265-0598.
