April 24, 2006
Violence Against Women
Members Statements [click to view video]

M. Polak: This week in British Columbia we focus on the prevention of violence against women. In times past it was difficult to convince people that violence against women was even a problem. Today it is rare to find anyone who believes violence against women is acceptable, and yet women and their children from every cultural and socioeconomic background continue to be the victims of violence.

               Governments can and should take an active role in eradicating this crime. In British Columbia the government has taken the lead through legislative reform and the provision of resources to those who are vulnerable. Reforms to the spousal assault policy have resulted in fewer stays of proceedings. Approximately $900,000 a year goes to support multicultural outreach services to immigrant women who have experienced abuse. In January of 2005 government increased funding to transition houses and front-line services for women by $12.5 million, the largest increase in over a decade.

              This commitment to supporting women and their children means that now 95 percent of women in British Columbia have access to services within an hour of their home. This week we are reminded that government action alone will not stop the abuse. Each one of us must choose to make ourselves part of the solution. Choose to talk about it. Choose not to tolerate inappropriate comments. Choose to speak up for those who can't. Choose to volunteer, to support those most vulnerable in your community.

              Violence against women is something that can be prevented. Let us all hope that at some future date, a week to highlight prevention of violence against women will be totally unnecessary.