Staff
Plans already are underway to mark the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women here in December.
“We don’t have anything set in stone just yet,” Heidi Smith of the United Native Friendship Centre said about plans for the annual vigil which local organizations are co-ordinating.
“We’re working on a few ideas.”
Locally, the vigil will take place on Dec. 6 at 6 p.m. at Knox United Church, which coincides with others across the country to commemorate the Montreal Massacre and all victims of gender-based violence.
As has been done in the past, part of the local vigil will include a slide show remembering those throughout the district who have lost their lives due to violence against women.
If anyone would like to acknowledge someone who has passed, Smith said they can contact her to have their name added to this slide show.
“I hate adding names—it’s just really sad, right?” Smith said, referring to the list of women that has grown as more people come forth with names of loved ones.
Organizers once again hope to incorporate many of the ideas which were included in last year’s vigil, such as music from high school students, a local women’s drumming group, and more.
“[We] hope to see more people—every year we get a little bit more [attendance]—just to acknowledge the women that we’ve lost.” Smith added.
People can contact Smith at 274-8541.
To help out with plans for the vigil, those interested also can contact Peggy Loyie at Rainy River District Victim Services (274-5687).
