Medicine Hat is shedding light on domestic abuse this November, kicking off Family Violence Prevention Month with a strong community presence and a dedicated memorial walk starting this Monday.
Heading into its 12th year, the annual Memorial Walk hosted by the Medicine Hat Women’s Shelter Society gets underway at noon outside City Hall. Following the walk, attendees will tie purple ribbons across the downtown core to show solidarity and promote local resources.
“We invite our community to join us for this annual walk where we put up purple ribbons around the downtown core of the city,” shared Natasha Carvalho, executive director of the shelter society.
Carvalho emphasized that the walk is only the beginning of a month-long campaign designed to educate residents, highlight crucial support systems, and foster a safer environment locally.
Key Highlights of the Month-Long Initiative
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City-Wide Lighting & Displays: Landmarks including the Saamis Tepee and Towne Square will glow purple from November 1 through November 7, alongside ribbon displays in local schools and educational exhibits across public libraries in Medicine Hat, Redcliff, and Bow Island.
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Official Proclamations: Mayor Linnsie Clark will officially declare November as Family Violence Prevention Month, followed by a formal presentation from the shelter society to City Council on Monday, November 2.
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Workshops & Special Events: Throughout the month, residents can take part in community training sessions, an elder abuse awareness event scheduled for November 19 at the Veiner Centre, and International Men’s Day celebrations at Medicine Hat College on the same day.
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Partnering with Sports & Local Groups: The initiative extends into the local sports and entertainment scene, featuring the shelter society at the Medicine Hat Tigers’ Community Corner on November 27 and during an ATB Wealth Chuck-a-Puck fundraiser on November 28.
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