Dear Editor:
Stalking is defined as the intentional or unintentional behaviour intending to cause fear in another. Has there been someone who:
calls you repeatedly, and perhaps hangs up when you answer the phone contacts you on the Internet or through constant e-mail messages follows you, your family or friends leaves threatening voice messages sends you gifts you do not want watches you or tracks where you go threatens you, your children, family, pets or friends
Have you or someone you love feared for your safety? If you answered yes to any of the above, it is time to break the silence.
Once you have told someone to stop a behaviour and they do not respect your "no" it could be considered criminal harassment. Stalking is a form of criminal harassment and it has serious effects on individuals. The fear of invasion of personal space can be as violent as a direct physical attack, leaving a victim with internal scars that may never heal. We all have the right to live free of violence and to feel safe and secure within our personal space.
The National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women is December 6th. This day marks the anniversary of the 1989 Montreal Massacre where 14 women were senselessly murdered.Far from being an isolated incident, this horrendous act verifies the fact that violence against women is pervasive throughout Canada.
On December 11th we will commemorate the death of these fourteen women while remembering the violence that many women endure on a daily basis. A Candlelight Vigil will be held at 2:00 p.m. at Sacred Heart High School in Yorkton. There is no cost to attend. Everyone is welcome.
The reality of violence affects everyone. Violence knows no boundaries. It affects all people.Women of all ages, races and classes may be the victims.
If we wish to become a society with zero tolerance to violence; we must promote the fact that violence is never acceptable.
The Partnership Against Violence Sub Committee (Candlelight Vigil), Yorkton, Sask.
