December 5, 2014
Twenty five years ago today, the lives of fourteen women were taken in a depraved act of violence in the name of "fighting feminism."
On this day, we remember those fourteen young women as well as all victims of violence against women.
All forms of violence against women are unacceptable and they take a heavy toll on individuals and our communities. I have been a Women's Rights advocate my entire life and involved with organizations working to end violence against women, including the Status of Women's Action Group, the Victoria Sexual Assault and Sexual Abuse Crisis Centre, and the Edmonton Women's Shelter.
As Minister of Health, I am deeply concerned about the significant and lasting health impacts of violence, and I am committed to actions that will help reduce violence and support safe and healthy communities. The Government of Canada works with a range of partners across the country to prevent family violence, including violence against women. This includes coordinating the federal Family Violence Initiative, which brings together 15 departments and agencies to address family violence.
In addition to this, our Government supports community-based children's programs that promote healthy relationships and positive parenting, which are associated with reduced risk of violence later in life. We also remain committed to investing in health services for First Nations and Inuit communities to address the root causes of family violence, including inter-generational trauma, loss of traditional culture, substance abuse and mental illness.
Join me today in speaking out against the intolerable acts of violence against women and girls, and committing to a peaceful society in which all people are respected.
The Honourable Rona Ambrose
Minister of Health
