The District of Kent is lighting Municipal Hall and the Agassiz RCMP Detachment in purple lights as part of the National Domestic Violence Awareness campaign during the month of October.
Domestic violence takes many forms, including physical violence, threats, insults, degrading comments, destroying property or extreme jealousy.
Locally, in addition to the purple lights, there will be an addition of 10 silhouettes in support of the Silent Witness Project, which was established in 1990 in New Brunswick. Life-sized red and black silhouettes are displayed to remember the women who have been killed due to domestic violence. The campaign also aims to created awareness of domestic violence risk factors and promote action to end violence against women. The Silent Witness Program was introduced to the Fraser Valley in Chilliwack and Hope in 2019.
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The silhouettes will be displayed at Municipal Hall, the Agassiz RCMP Detachment and the Community Recreation and Cultural Centre.
“As rates of police-reported family violence against children and youth, intimate partners, and seniors all rose in 2019, according to Stats Canada, community awareness and education is more important than ever,” said Agassiz RCMP spokesperson Sgt. Mike Sargent. “Domestic violence is an issue that affects all our communities. Through the Purple Light Nights public awareness campaign, we aim to bring attention to this important issue in hopes of preventing these types of incidents from occurring.”
“Let’s all shine a light on Domestic Violence and send a strong message that violence has no place in our community,” said Mayor Sylvia Pranger in a statement.
Purple light bulbs, wristbands and masks are available at the Agassiz RCMP Detachment, Municipal Hall and the Community Recreation and Cultural Centre for a small donation.
Anyone who witnesses or experiences domestic violence should contact the Agassiz RCMP at 604-796-2211 or call Agassiz RCMP Victim Services at 604-796-1614.
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