‘Dress Purple’ to Raise Awareness of Child Abuse

October is Child Abuse Prevention Month in Ontario. It provides an important opportunity to raise awareness about child abuse and neglect in an effort to end violence in the lives of children and youth.

On Tuesday, October 24, everyone in Grand Erie is encouraged to take part in Dress Purple Day, a provincial day of action to demonstrate a commitment to breaking the silence, recognizing and reporting incidents of violence and neglect, and educating on abuse prevention.

In partnership with Brant Family and Children’s Services, Grand Erie is taking part in this vital cause. Recognizing that “it takes a village to keep kids safe,” staff and students can get involved by dressing in purple, and joining the conversation on social media using the hashtag #IBreakTheSilence.

“Grand Erie places the safety of children as its highest priority, both within our schools and in the broader community,” said Wayne Baker, Superintendent of Education, whose portfolio includes Safe Schools. “Every adult has the responsibility to treat children fairly and humanely, and to ensure that others do the same.”

Two events are scheduled at Grand Erie schools, with the intention of demonstrating the supports in place to help any child affected by violence or neglect. Central Public School will be hosting a school-wide assembly, and North Ward School’s Grade 8 class is taking the lead there. Both schools will receive special-guest visits from Brant Family and Children’s Services, Brantford City Council, Brantford Police and Fire services, and Grand Erie Superintendents.