Manitoba Government Partners with Winnipeg Blue Bombers to Break the Silence on Violence Against Women

October 27, 2015

Bombers Players to be Featured in Public Service Announcements,Youth Education Workshops: Premier Selinger

Winnipeg Blue Bombers players will be featured prominently in a public education program launching in partnership with the Manitoba government to help end violence against women and girls, Premier Greg Selinger announced today.

“Violence against women and girls is a persistent and unacceptable crime but it can be prevented,” said Premier Selinger. “Thanks to the participation of the Blue Bombers, the Break the Silence on Violence Against Women initiative will help all Manitobans recognize the importance of promoting a safe, inclusive society for women, and the positive role men play in building this environment.”

The Manitoba government and Status of Women Canada have provided support for this initiative, which includes public service announcements featuring Winnipeg Blue Bombers players and staff. Over the next three years, the project will also include more than 100 school-based educational workshops led by Blue Bombers players and staff for high school students, football teams, coaching staff and community leaders.

“Violence against women is a men’s issue. As community leaders, we are fortunate enough to have a platform to champion this cause,” said Wade Miller, president and chief executive officer, Winnipeg Blue Bombers. “We are very proud of the players and staff who have stepped up as ambassadors for this program.”

Developed in partnership with Ending Violence Association of Canada, the school programs emphasize the role young men and boys play in promoting gender equality, and their ability to transform environments that perpetuate or contribute to violence against women and girls.

“Violence is often a learned behaviour that can start early in life,” said Family Services Minister Kerri Irvin-Ross, minister responsible for the status of women. “When we reach boys and girls at a young age, we have the best chance to change the attitudes that can lead to violence.”

The Break the Silence on Violence Against Women project is a continuation of the 2012 public awareness campaign by the Manitoba government and the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.

To view public service announcements or for more information, visit www.gov.mb.ca/stoptheviolence/.

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