LOCAL NEWS - OCTOBER 18, 2021 - Programme Empreinte interveners from CALACS are in Bonne-Esperance today to speak about Sexual Violence against girls and community workshops
Sexual violence is a serious social problem affecting thousands of people every year in Quebec. It is mistakenly believed that the perpetrator of sexual violence does so out of impulse, but it is more often the expression of an underlying desire for power and domination of the victim.
Sexual violence has many faces: sexual assault (rape), incest, sexual harassment and abuse by a professional are just a few manifestations. The shame, guilt and fear that surrounds sexual violence are still very much present among victims and often keep them in social isolation.
Breaking the silence, speaking freely, is a first step towards healing, and Programme Empreinte is aiding students, families, friends and school staff in the process.
CFBS was speaking today with Laury Boulianne and Alexandra Paradis, Interveners for the Programme Empreinte, a program designed to give support to victims of sexual violence, and anyone else affected by giving tools in order to cope while respecting the confidentiality of all involved. This program is through Lumière Boréale Calacs in Baie-Comeau, a community organization founded in 1990 specifically dedicated to the problem of sexual assault.
This center for help and the fight against sexual assault in Baie-Comeau helps women aged 14 and over and those around them. If you are a victim of sexual violence, there is support available to you, and it is confidential. You do not have to bear the burden of the situation alone.
Lumière Boréale Calacs in Baie-Comeau
Phone:1-800-563-0443
Website: http://lumiereboreale.qc.ca/
For 24/7 Emergencies after hours, please call 1-888-933-9007
Listen to my interview in English with Laury Boulianne and Alexandra Paradis, by clicking on the sound file below (click on the speaker icon next to the sound file and a media player will open up to hear the interview).
Abbygail Wellman
CFBS Journalist
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