November is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a month dedicated to raising awareness and support for those impacted by domestic violence, also known as intimate partner violence. In Canada, the numbers are harrowing: every 48 hours, a woman is killed by a man, primarily intimate partners, according to a 2022 report from Canadian Femicide Observatory for Justice and Accountability. Statistics Canada also reports that more than 4 in 10 women have experienced some form of intimate partner violence in their lifetimes.

Here in Manitoba, Bravestone Centre has been a lifeline for woman impacted by domestic violence by providing support services for over 35 years.  

Lori Rudniski, executive director of Bravestone Centre, stresses that domestic violence is far-reaching.  

“The common myth is that it only happens to certain people, in certain communities,” she says. “It happens across all socio-economic backgrounds, rural and urban communities, ages, as well as ethnic backgrounds.”

Domestic violence manifests in many forms, from physical to emotional to financial abuse. Each type of abuse leaves lasting scars, chipping away at one’s sense of self and confidence and instilling fear, she says.

The women who come to Bravestone Centre can face uncertainty, yet Rudniski has seen many women make the courageous choice to leave.  

“At Bravestone Centre, we are fortunate to walk beside women who have made that step,” she says. “They want to break the cycle of violence for themselves and for their children.”  

For Rudniski, watching women graduate from the program and experience a transformation is powerful.  

“For the 20 years that I have been at Bravestone, we have had many success stories. We have seen women start to trust and listen to themselves, they are standing taller and feeling more confident.”

Her message is clear: “Trust yourself and reach out. There are people who want to help.”

If you are in immediate danger or fear for your safety due to gender-based violence or domestic violence, please call 911 or your local emergency services or go to the emergency room of your nearest hospital.

If you're experiencing domestic abuse and need support, please reach out to a friend or family member. You can also call 1.877.977.0007 (toll free) or text 204.792.5302 or 204.805.6682 to connect with the Government of Manitoba's Domestic Violence Support Service.

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