Stop VAW launches community information sessions on intimate partner violence

Stop Violence Against Women (Stop VAW) is hosting a series of community information sessions across Perth County from January through May.

Each session will feature professional service providers who will be available on site to offer support and practical information, along with a general presentation highlighting how community members can help address gender-based violence.

The monthly sessions aim to increase community understanding and accessibility, with a focus on shifting responsibility from individuals to the broader community. The approach emphasizes early detection, support and community intervention.

“Our goal is to shift towards community accountability and community responsibility – to recognize that this is happening in our community and that this is a community problem,” said Jenniffer Olenewa, community projects lead with Stop VAW. “It impacts everyone.”

During each session, attendees will learn about the different types of abuse and how to recognize the signs of intimate partner violence (IPV). Participants will also learn what to say to support someone who may be experiencing IPV and about the community resources and programs available throughout Perth County.

“For the last 40 years, the anti-violence against women movement has been geared toward women who are experiencing violence, sending a message that somehow she is responsible for ending the violence, or that if she doesn’t leave, it’s her fault,” said Olenewa.

“It’s very disheartening, and it’s time to try something different,” she said. “Different interventions, different strategies and really putting this back on the community.”

Each session provides tools and resources to help community members recognize and address gender-based violence effectively.

“Our goal is to reach more community members so we can create a larger, shared understanding of intimate partner violence across all of Perth County,” said Olenewa.

“What we’re trying to do is give community members the skills they need so women don’t feel solely responsible for ending violence that isn’t their fault, and so people know how to recognize the signs and speak up.”

Upcoming sessions include:

• Mitchell – Jan. 27 at Upper Thames Elementary School.

• St. Marys – Feb. 17 at Little Falls Public School.

• Listowel – March 11 at Eastdale Public School.

• Milverton – April 13 at Milverton Public School.

• Stratford – Date and location to be determined.

Food and drinks will be provided and free parking will be available at each location.

To learn more or to register for an upcoming session, visit stopvaw.ca and click on Events. Registration is required for food and drink planning only; no personal information will be stored.

Anyone concerned about intimate partner violence can contact Optimism Place’s 24/7 support line at 519-271-5550 or 1-800-265-8598 (toll-free).