SUMMERSIDE, P.E.I. — The only sound on Heather Moyse Drive at noontime on Tuesday was of dozens of feet on the pavement as dozens participated in a walk in support of family violence prevention.
Lee Anne Inman and Danya O’Malley from P.E.I. Family Violence Prevention Service and Summerside Mayor Basil Stewart carried a banner that read, “We believe it is a basic human right to be free of abuse and from fear of abuse in relationships”.
Together they led the Walk in Silence.
Faces were serious, pulled into frowns or even grief as they walked along the Summerside waterfront.
Linda Campbell was there with a loved one, supporting their journey out of a violent home.
“There is hope,” said Campbell.
Find someone to confide in, you have to talk about it, she said.
Her loved one, a domestic violence survivor, chimed in.
“It has to stop being a dirty little secret.”
- Survivor
“It has to stop being a dirty little secret.”
O’Malley counted 72 people as they entered the Eptek centre after the walk.
The executive director of the P.E.I. Family Violence Prevention Services said the walk is to maintain awareness of the cause.
“It’s instrumental for people to know help is available, and society is taking a stance against violence. We need to deal with conflict in different ways and be respectful of each other.”
HELP IS AVAILABLE:
- Anyone needing help or information can call the crisis line at 1-800-240-9884.
- Someone will answer anytime, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and it’s not just for an emergency.
- Call if you need information or a referral to other help. The service is anonymous and totally confidential.
