Get active about gender violence

Photo: Contributed - Elizabeth Fry Society

In an effort to combat gender violence, the Central Okanagan chapter of the Elizabeth Fry Society will be taking part in 16 days of activism.

This global initiative begins today with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and ends on International Human Rights Day on Dec. 10.

Gender based violence can take many forms, including domestic assaults, sexual abuse, harassment and rape. This can also lead to physical, mental, sexual and other health problems.

Over the past eight months, the local chapter of Elizabeth Fry has been working closely with the Kelowna RCMP and other justice and child welfare partners to develop a Highest Risk Domestic Violence Protocol, which will help ensure the safety of women and children in the city. This protocol will be signed at Dec. 3 at the Kelowna RCMP detachment.

Also taking place during the 16 days will be a candle light vigil on Dec. 6. This will be to remember the women who have died in gender-based violence in Kelowna and across Canada.

The event will begin at 6:30 p.m. with a walk from Bean Scene Coffee at the Landmark Centre, across the Highway 97 footbridge to the Parkinson Recreation Centre where the vigil will be held.

For more information on the events and the Elizabeth Fry Society, click here.