Remembering the 1989 massacre and taking action today to support women and children facing abuse
MARKHAM, Ontario – Yellow Brick House and Committee for Awareness of Violence Against Women with support of the City of Markham’s Mayor Frank Scarpitti and Regional Councilor Nirmala Armstrong are proud to host Invisible No More: End Violence Against Women on Wednesday, December 6th, 2017 from 9:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. at the Markham Civic Centre, Council Chambers.
At this significant event, Markham will be the first city in York Region to proclaim Dec 6th as the National Day of Remembrance and Action to End Violence Against Women marking the anniversary of the 1989 École Polytechnique massacre in Quebec. In addition, the event will reflect on violence against women and recognition of the community supporting Yellow Brick House Markham Shelter Bed/Living space Campaign.
“It takes an immense amount of courage and strength to rebuild a life,” says Mayor Frank Scarpitti, “but with the help of the dedicated professionals at the Yellow Brick House, adversity is turned into triumph. By empowering women and children, they are creating a brighter future.”
"I stand strong against the issue of Violence Against Women,” says Regional Councilor Nirmala Armstrong, “and have come together with our community to understand the impact that this issue has had on many women and families within the City of Markham. I commend the Yellow Brick House as they are champions in raising awareness about this issue and continue to provide women in need with a warm meal and a safe place to stay."
“On this day, we remember the victims of gender based violence and also recognize that it is a day to call our community to action to raise awareness, to speak about domestic violence, and to celebrate the commitment of our community leaders in supporting essential services such as Yellow Brick House Markham shelter” said Lorris Herenda, Executive Director, Yellow Brick House.
The Markham Shelter Campaign aims to raise $1,540,000 over the next four years to ensure sustainable funding for Yellow Brick House’s newest emergency shelter that opened in 2012.
With one in four women in York Region experiencing abuse, community support is vital in ensuring women and children find the safety and support needed to rebuild their lives. Last year, at a critical time when support and safety were needed the most, 280 women and 295 children in our community fleeing violence could not access a shelter bed.
Join us for a morning of remembrance. Join us to support the women and children in your community who need your support!