The Ontario Native Women's Association met in Sudbury recently to explore possible prevention methods for domestic violence. Violence against youth and women in Aboriginal communities is a primary focus of the association. The CBC reported that the group is seeking to work with government agencies to raise awareness of the issue, as well as create resources for those affected in the community.
"Prevention education is essential to help reduce the incidence and impact of violence in communities," says Shelley Cardinal, national aboriginal advisor with the Canadian Red Cross Respect Education: Violence and Abuse Prevention Program. "People need information to help them understand the issues of violence and abuse and how to help their families and communities create safer environments for everyone."
Cardinal leads a specialized program area called Walking the Prevention Circle designed specifically for Aboriginal communities. This Canadian Red Cross workshop has been providing resources, training local people and helping to build capacity in communities to address violence and abuse prevention since 1998. Hundreds of prevention educators have been trained to provide education and support in their communities. Thousands of First Nation, Inuit and Métis people have benefited from the education, resources and support that they are able to provide.