Calgary (Rajeev Sharma): Alberta is marking its fourth annual Consent Awareness Week with a renewed focus on preventing sexual and gender-based violence and promoting safer campuses and communities across the province.
Minister of Advanced Education Myles McDougall and Minister of Arts, Culture and Status of Women Tanya Fir issued a joint statement emphasizing the importance of consent education, prevention initiatives and support for survivors.
The ministers noted that the first six weeks of the academic year are considered a high-risk period for sexual violence, making the timing of Consent Awareness Week particularly significant as students return to post-secondary institutions and begin a new academic year.
The annual campaign takes place during the third week of September and encourages Albertans to have conversations about consent while strengthening awareness and prevention efforts.
McDougall said creating safer environments cannot be achieved by governments or institutions acting alone. He emphasized the need for cooperation among post-secondary institutions, community organizations and Albertans to address sexual and gender-based violence.
Fir similarly highlighted the importance of consent in building healthy relationships and respectful communities. She said every Albertan should be able to live without violence, harassment or fear.
The province is also pointing to its 10-Year Strategy to End Gender-Based Violence, which includes measures focused on supporting survivors, strengthening prevention and promoting a broader culture of consent.
The ministers encouraged Albertans to use Consent Awareness Week as an opportunity to speak openly about consent, support others and contribute to communities where people feel safe, respected and supported.
