Last year, several high profile incidents of domestic and sexual violence forced a national conversation on both sides of the border about the epidemic of violence against women. The role of women’s anti-violence organizations emerged as key in providing a community-based response to survivors. And the powerful role of philanthropy emerged as individuals took direct action through their fundraising for Battered Women’s Support Services.
We were thrilled and honoured to see hockey fans unite for #hockeyfightsdv. Growing from the leadership of Alix Wright, a serious Vancouver Canucks fan #hockeyfightsdv was born. Here’s Alix in her own words…
Inspired by my lovely friends @wraparoundcurl and @nonmodernist, I’m taking part in the fundraising project Hockey Fights Domestic Violence.
If you wanted more information about how it started, you can read @nonmodernist’s post about it here.
Domestic violence has been a hot issue in the NFL and NHL recently, with players being arrested for incidents in both leagues. But domestic violence is also a terrible reality for so many people around the world, not just connected to sports.
So, to do a little bit to help, I will be donating money this season to Battered Women’s Support Services(BWSS) in Vancouver. They have numerous services and programs that help and empower women and children who have lived through domestic violence.
– For every goal or assist Henrik Sedin scores this season, I will donate $1.00
– In addition, for every Eddie Lack shutout or Dan Hamhuis hipcheck I will donate $3.00
If you want to join in with your own player and charity please do! You can always comment here, email, or tweet me if you need help or have any questions or just need a virtual high five.
People are using the #hockeyfightsdv on twitter and there is a tumblr Hockey Fights Domestic Violence for cheerleading and camaraderie and all that good stuff.
Thanks for reading about something that’s important to me! Go Canucks Go.
Alix is making a significant change in the lives of women and girls by unifying her passion for ending violence against women and hockey. Her #hockeyfightsdv fundraising campaign helping BWSS continue offering free and confidential support services for girls and women to break the silence and stand in their power. She is a great example of how each of us has the power to make change and can use it for a future free from violence.
Alix’s action was an inspiration for her husband…
Last month, another former NFL player Darren Sharper accepted a plea deal admitting to “rape charges involving at least nine women in four states” between 2011 and 2014. Violence against women and girls is a most pressing issue of our time. We believe survivors, we believe in the power of community-based solutions to these problems and we’re grateful for all our donors. We’re stronger, together.
For Prevention of Violence Against Women Week making a donation to BWSS.
Here’s your gift in action:
$15 – provides a dating violence prevention education workshop for two youth
$25 – provides twelve hours crisis line training and support for volunteers
$50 – provides one support group session for two women
Thank you for your support!
If you need support regarding a current or past experience of gender based violence, please call BWSS Crisis & Intake Line at 604-687-1867 or toll free at 1-855-687-1868.
Learn more about #BecauseYouCan – Prevention of Violence Against Women Week:
Prevention of Violence Against Women Week 2015
You could do something to End Violence Against Women
