Friday (Dec. 6) is the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women.
In Huntsville, Muskoka Women’s Shelters and Services will hold a free event starting at 4 p.m. at the Huntsville Public Library.
Samantha Kosynski, Operations Manager at the organization, says the number of femicides has slowly grown according to data gathered by the Ontario Association of Interval and Transition Homes.
“I think it’s easy for everyone to think violence doesn’t happen in their own community. It is different, however, when it does happen,” says Kosynski.
She says during the event, candles will be lit for the victims.
“When we began about ten years ago, there were less than 30 names,” shares Kosynski. “This year, there will be 62 candles lit as we read out 62 names. So, the numbers themselves show that violence has increased.”
She says the event is to create awareness of the issue and the impact it represents.
“It causes people to sit back and realize how significant the problem really is and get people interested in helping to support the cause,” says Kosynski.
Christine Aarlaht, board chair, says it is important to remember the lives lost and the lives affected by gender-based violence.
“At the heart of this violence is a deep-rooted misogyny that needs to be addressed at all levels of our lives,” says Aarlaht.
Kosynski says they will also provide information about the two shelters they offer for women fleeing violence in Huntsville and Bracebridge. She adds everyone is welcome to join the event.
