A new four-point plan being launched by the Manitoba government to help prevent sexual assault and improve services for its victims.
The plan will build on existing initiatives and new research as well as public consultations in Winnipeg and input from service providers. Ultimately, its goal is to improve co-ordination of services for victims and develop awareness programs that hold perpetrators responsible, not victims.
The plan includes a UN Global Safe Cities initiatives, sexual assault protocols, public awareness campaign and a national knowledge exchange.
“Too often, sexual violence and abuse is shielded by silence caused by fear, social stigma and emotional devastation,” said Family Services Minister Kerri Irvin-Ross. “The more we speak out for and with the victims, provide appropriate supports and shift social attitudes about the causes and impacts of sexual violence, the more progress we will make towards ending it.”
Two workshops will also held this month as the Manitoba Status of Women partners with the Klinic Community Health Centre and local community organizations.
— Staff
