Together for Justice

Together for Justice: Free public event promotes education and advocacy

On March 6, the Nipissing Violence Against Women Coordinating Committee (VAWCC) will host Together for Justice: Education and Advocacy for Community Change, a free, all-day event at the Nipissing University Student Union (NUSU) Student Centre Building on College Drive.

As a dedicated committee member of the VAWCC, Nipissing University is proud to play a part in promoting a safer and more equitable community. This gathering aims to inspire and empower attendees through education and advocacy, addressing important themes such as decolonization, women's rights, and community support.

The event features two distinguished speakers:

Charmaine Lane: A Registered Psychotherapist, Educator, Social Justice Activist, and Cultural Consultant, Charmaine Lane is the Founder and Director at CLR Lane Consulting & PsychoSocial Services. Her work on decolonization in racialized communities, specifically includes how organizations and service providers can decolonize their services or practices. She will lead a session from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., sharing her extensive experience in mental health and social justice.

Pamela Cross: A feminist lawyer and renowned expert on violence against women and the law, Pamela Cross works as a researcher, writer, educator, and trainer with women's equality and violence against women organizations. Her session is scheduled from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., where she will discuss legal frameworks and advocacy strategies to combat gender-based violence.

The event includes a resource fair, providing attendees with access to valuable information and support services. A lunch break is also scheduled, offering an opportunity for networking and reflection. The day will conclude with a question and discussion period, followed by a book sale and signing by Pamela Cross. Her book, And Sometimes They Kill You: Confronting the Epidemic of Intimate Partner Violence, will be available for purchase at the event.

Samantha Bottigoni, Chair of the Nipissing Violence Against Women Coordinating Committee (VAWCC), emphasized the importance of such events in fostering community engagement and education. “Bringing together experts and community members to discuss these pressing issues is crucial for creating a safer and more equitable society. It’s through education and collective action that we can drive meaningful change,” she commented.

The Together for Justice event is one of the many collaborative efforts of organizations addressing and preventing violence against women. By focusing on education, advocacy, and community support, the event aims to empower individuals and promote systemic change.

For more information and to register for the event, visit www.eventbrite.ca/e/together-for-justice-education-and-advocacy-for-community-change-tickets-1223825377649.