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Header image of a woman and a child's face. The text reads: "Pervasive and widespread, woman abuse and sexual violence harm women of all ages, sexual orientations, racial and ethnic backgrounds, socio-economic classes and religions".

Pervasive and widespread, woman abuse and sexual violence harm
women of all ages, sexual orientations, racial and ethnic backgrounds,
socio-economic classes and religions.

Mobile header containing a woman's face and a child's face. The header contains the following text: "Woman abuse harms women of all ages, sexual orientations, ethnic backgrounds, socio-economic classes, & religions.

Media Release – Riya Rajkumar – Feb 15 2019

WAWG Applauds Peel Regional Police for Issuing an Amber Alert

It was absolutely devastating to hear of the 11 -year-old girl, Riya Rajkumar missing on February 14, 2019.  Thousands of us heard of this very troubling news through an Amber Alert. It was deeply saddening to hear of her murder.  On behalf of the Woman Abuse Working Group, we applaud the Peel Police for acting quickly, hearing Riya’s Mom’s concerns for her daughter’s welfare, believing her and issuing the Amber Alert.

This tragedy will be remembered by many.  We must keep the focus on the safety of children and do everything to support their safety.  Our hearts ache for this Mom and family as we know there is nothing more debilitating than the murder of your child.

It was most disturbing to hear some reactions of folks complaining about the noise of the Amber Alert disrupting their sleep.  To those, I ask where is your compassion and moral compass?

Background

As Chair, I’m representing a coalition of over 15 agencies in the City of Hamilton working to end violence against women.  We support efforts through advocacy, education and leadership to raise awareness on gender-based violence and the impact on women and children as well, create opportunities for community engagement.  Most specifically, we strongly advocate for the removal of systemic barriers that perpetuate gender-based violencs.

For information and interviews please contact:

Nancy Smith, Executive Director of Interval House of Hamilton
Chair of WAWG

WAWG Members

  1. Catholic Children’s Aid Society of Hamilton
  2. Catholic Family Services
  3. Centre de santé communautaire Hamilton/Niagara
  4. Equity and Inclusion Office -McMaster
  5. Good Shepherd Women’s  Services
  6. Hamilton Regional Indian Centre
  7. Interval House of Hamilton
  8. Mission Services of Hamilton – Inasmuch House
  9. Native Women’s Centre
  10. North Hamilton Community Health Centre
  11. SACHA – Sexual Assault Centre (Hamilton & Area)
  12. Sexual Assault/ Domestic Violence Care Centre
  13. The AIDS Network
  14. The Elizabeth Fry Society of Southern Ontario Region
  15. Women’s Centre of Hamilton
  16. YWCA Hamilton
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