FOR RELEASE     #06-244
December 12, 2006

WHITEHORSE - Nine Whitehorse youth recently spent ten weeks developing a photojournalism exhibit on how youth can prevent sexualized violence and develop healthy relationships.

"This exhibit speaks directly to Yukon youth and provides very real local perspectives," Elaine Taylor, minister responsible for the Women's Directorate, said. "One of the special things about this exhibit is that it was developed for youth, by youth, and has provided the opportunity to engage young people in learning about sexual assault, prevention, and community support services and resources."

This initiative also provided skill development for the youth, an artistic outlet to express themselves, as well as an opportunity to participate in the development of the campaign.

"I'd like policy makers to know that there should be more programs like this for youth," Felicia Gordon, an 18 year-old said. "I learned a lot and I hope that this exhibit will encourage other youth to think about this issue."

The opening reception for the exhibit will take place from 3:30 p.m. until 5 p.m. on Wednesday, December 13 in the foyer of the Elijah Smith Building. Some of the youth photojournalists will be in attendance. The exhibit will be on display until December 21.

This exhibit is part of a long-term public education campaign, now in its second year, addressing violence against women and children. The Circle of Respect and Equality (C.O.R.E.) inter-agency committee, which steers the campaign, is made up of 17 government departments, non-government organizations and front-line organizations. Supporters specific to the photojournalism project include the Women's Directorate, the Youth Achievement Centre, Kaushee's Place, Yukon Family Services Association, Skyward Outreach Services and Yukon College.

Other recent initiatives that address violence against women include the production of three brochures: Just for Girls; Just for Guys; and, How to support a woman who has been sexually assaulted. Each of the pieces provides practical actions for reducing the incidence of sexualized violence against young women.

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