Each year, the Canadian Federation of University Women (CFUW) Southport holds its annual ‘Violence against Women Vigil’ in Port Elgin (Saugeen Shores) on December 6th.
“We hold this event at noon today in memory of the 14 young women engineering students who were massacred at École Polytechnique du Montreal by a deranged gunman for the simple reason that they were women,” said CFUW President Odette Bartnicki.
“This is one of the largest crowds we’ve had in attendance for several years and we are so appreciative of everyone who came out for this important event.”
Every year, the name of each young woman, who was killed by 25-year-old Marc Lepine, is read aloud so that they become a living memory never to be forgotten.
This year, keynote speaker Jessica St. Peter, Manager of Kabaeshiwim Respite Women’s
Shelter at Saugeen First Nation, said, “It is important to attend events such as this. We all have an obligation. There are many reasons for women who seek a shelter but accessing is difficult as there are not enough beds. We have three shelters in Grey Bruce but one in three women will experience violence and, we often have to turn women away, not because we want to but we have no room. This is the time of year for the spirit of giving and, right now, we are having to provide rooms in motels for mothers and their children.”
She added that she was thankful to see so many men in attendance. “It’s your duty to encourage other men to treat women with respect. We are here together because we care and can make a difference.”
Saugeen Shores Police officer, Sgt. Chantal Primeau, also explained the role of policing and its commitment to protecting the vulnerable when it comes to violence. “When it comes to gender-based violence, we promise to collaborate with our community to eliminate stigma related to violence and commit to swift intervention, providing extra support and resources to victims moving forward. In 2022, our police secured some $80,000 through a provincially funded community grant now in its second year, to provide additional training, investigative resources and educational materials such as pamphlets and handouts for organizations such as CFUW. We stand in our partnership with the Women’s Houses of Grey Bruce, Victim Services and our allies to ensure these funds enhance our investigative efforts.”
Sgt. Primeau said there is evidence that gender-based violence is increasing, particularly
affecting women, girls and LGBTQIA2S. “Locally, there has been an increase of gender-based violence by 3% and sexual offences by 18%. Together, we strive to ensure that no one facing victimization from gender-based violence faces isolation or has no support. Today’s tribute not only honours the past but also looks to the future as an agent of positive change. The women we commemorate today were ‘trail blazers’ and we commit to those who are following in their footsteps.”
Co-organizer, Cheryl Kryzaniwsky, pointed out that donations accepted at the event would
be divided between the three local Women’s Shelters. Last year, 2022, donations at the event numbered $3,000.
“With the overall increase in costs and numbers who need help, it is hoped that this year will raise more funds to support women and children in need.”
Each year, members of the Chantry Singers bring a semblance of peace and calmness to end the ceremony.
Help for those experiencing domestic violence:
Victim Services Bruce-Grey-Perth: 1-866-376-9852
Women’s House 1-800-265-3026
The Women’s Centre Grey Bruce 1-800-265-3722
Social Services Hotline: 2-1-1
United Way of Bruce Grey 1-800-794-1728
Family Violence Resources:
https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/health-promotion/stop-family-violence/services.html
