The Chatham-Kent Sexual Assault Crisis Centre hosted a flag-raising this week to recognize Sexual Assault Prevention Month.
The event aimed to raise awareness and promote healthy and positive relationships based on respect, safety and equality.
Community groups spoke words of inspiration and hope – Michelle Schryer and Glenda Johnston – Sexual Assault Crisis Centre, Karen Hunter with CK Coordinating Committee to End Violence Against Women, Kelly Tallon Franklin with CK Anti-Trafficking Coalition, Faith Hale with Ska:na Family Learning Centre, Hilary Henley with Zonta and Sr. Eleanor Gleeson with Ursuline Sisters.
Chatham-Kent – Leamington Member of Provincial Parliament, Trevor Jones and Member of Parliament, Dave Epp could not attend, but sent their support and thanks for all the great work being done to prevent sexual violence in our community,” Municipal officials say.
“In recognizing that survivors are experts of their own experiences and listening to the needs identified by these survivors, you are giving them the chance to have their voices heard,” MP Epp said in a written statement.
“It truly takes a community to end sexual violence and advocating to work toward the elimination of sexual violence is the best way in achieving this goal.”
Police Chief Gary Conn said there is generally an average of between 90-100 sexual assault incidents per year in Chatham-Kent.
“Last year was the first year we have seen a significant reduction in incidents,” Chief Conn said, in a media release.
“In 2022, we had a 30% reduction, down to 74.”
Mayor Darrin Canniff thanked those who are doing the work and emphasized the importance of education in preventing sexual violence.
In the photo, Andrea Hoekstra with her daughters, Lennon and Morleigh holding the #SurvivorsFirst flag.
