YELLOWKNIFE (November 25, 2014) – The Minister Responsible for Women, Premier Bob McLeod, issued a statement marking the United Nations’International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women.

“Today is an opportunity for us to consider how we can make a difference in the lives of women in our communities,” said Premier McLeod.  “As Secretary-General to the United Nations Ban Ki-moon said, ‘Everyone has a responsibility to prevent and end violence against women and girls, starting by challenging the culture of discrimination that allows it to continue.’

“The  Northwest Territories (NWT) has the second highest rate of family violence in Canada and a majority of victims of family violence are women and children.

Violence against women occurs across all cultures, regions and countries and affects women and their families from all socio-economic groups. What they all have in common is that they are victims of discrimination and the denial of their fundamental human rights.

“The Government of the Northwest Territories is committed to supporting sustainable, vibrant and safe communities. Much of the work we do focuses on educating and supporting our residents so they can participate in and benefit from the economic and social prosperity of the NWT.

“Today and every day, NWT residents can support  and encourage women to participate in leadership, recognize the value of women and the contribution they make to our territory and to speak up when women are being treated with disrespect. Today is also an opportunity to speak with our young men and boys about their role and place in a healthy, vibrant NWT.”

For more information, contact:

Brenda Norris
Media Liaison
Government of the Northwest Territories
Tel: 867-669-2302
Email: brenda_norris@gov.nt.ca