Calgary, Alberta.
The Calgary Domestic Violence Collective(CDVD) is saddened to hear of the domestic violence homicide incident that occurred earlier this morning in Calgary. Domestic violence knows no bounds –everyone is affected. Domestic violence crosses all social, gender, economic, ethnic and cultural barriers. There is no situation that justifies domestic violence and survivors deserve the right to be safe and lead healthy, violence free lives.
“These homicides are a reminder of how important it is for us, as a community to take a stand against domestic violence.One incident is too many. Our province has one of the highest rates of domestic violence in the country, it is no longer okay to stay silent.We must take a stand and speak out, we are all partners in ending domestic violence,”says Andrea Silverstone, Executive Director,Sagesse. “It takes a community to address domestic violence. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic or sexual violence or in an unhealthy relationship, help and support is available. We must work together to break the silence”
Alberta has the third highest rate of domestic violence in the country. Annually, the Calgary Police respond to over 18,000 domestic violence related calls and one in five of them involve some form of physical violence.
There are safe avenues for help –the CDVC encourages community members to break the silence around domestic violence, stand up and speak out. There are many local agencies, programs and initiatives in place that aim to develop a community of care for those experiencing domestic violence or who may be at risk. Please visit: www.cdvc.ca for more information.
- If you are experiencing or have questions about domestic violence, please call: 403.234.7233 (SAFE).
- If you are experiencing or have questions about sexual abuse and sexual assault, please call: 403.237.5888.
- If you are in immediate danger, please call 911.
For media inquiries, please call:
Andrea Silverstone, Executive Director
Sagesse
403.234.7337 ext 1 or Andrea@sagesse.org
Kim Ruse, Executive Director
Calgary Women’s Emergency Shelter
403.539.5124 or kimr@cwes.ca