High Rate of Violence Against Women In Mississauga Causes Concerns

Published May 27, 2019 at 6:38 pm

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Violence against women happens everywhere, but one organization is deeply concerned about women being killed in the Region of Peel (Brampton, Mississauga and Caledon) and is trying to get men to invest their time and energy into ending violence against women.

While most people understand violence exists, the facts are harrowing.

According to Interim Place, eight women and girls were killed in the Peel Region by men they knew, just in 2018 alone.

Men killed around 150 females they knew in Canada. According to Statistics Canada, half of all Canadian women have experienced physical or sexual violence, and just over one in four Canadian women (29 per cent) have been assaulted by a partner.

On average, one female is killed every 2.5 days in Canada.

Interim Place, a women’s shelter that also provides counselling and advocacy for women, operates two emergency shelters in Peel. They report that in 2018, 147 women and 106 children sought safety at their shelters. Interim Place also responded to 1,388 crisis calls in 2018. They have also provided counselling and supported 812 women and children living in abusive homes in the Peel Region.

This high rate of violence against women has raised many concerns for Peel residents.

Thus, Interim Place has released five tips for men to help in the fight against abuse.

Interim Place is also hosting its 3rd annual Purple Tie Luncheon on June 9 at 11:30 a.m. The luncheon will be held at the Credit Valley Golf and Country Club to raise awareness about the critical role men play in the fight to end violence against women.

“Ending violence against women is possible and men have a critical role to play in bringing this vision to reality. We call on all men in our community to take a stand and hold themselves and other men accountable for creating a community of safety for all women,” said Sharon Floyd, Executive Director of Interim Place.

The Purple Tie Luncheon will feature a presentation by activist and educator Jeff Perera, who will explore strategies male allies can use to effect positive change in the Peel region, a networking session, and a lunch. Funds raised at the event will support Interim Place’s programs and services.

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