Member for Chilliwack Kent. Thank you. Honorable speaker, I rise today to talk about prevention of violence against women week this week recognizes that gender-based violence or gbv is an ongoing problem that deserves the attention of everyone and that we must all work together to end. Violence against people based on their gender, -based, violence or gbv is any violence that is committed against someone based on their gender identity. Gender expression or perceived gender gbv includes any form of violence or intimidation that is physical, psychological, sexual Financial, cultural or spiritual in nature.

Gbv disproportionately impacts women, girls, indigenous people, 2s, lgbtqia, plus non-binary and gender non-conforming. Folks, gbv happens everywhere. It can happen at home, school work, religious or cultural, centers, Urban or rural communities, any income level. Anyone at its foundation, gbv, is based on gender inequality and is an abuse of power.

There are many gender-based violence service providers in communities across our Province. Some of these organizations also have resources for friends, family members and loved ones of those who may be experiencing violence. Gender-Based violence is everyone's business and it's important to know the signs. If someone you know is withdrawing from contact with their family and friends, they have unexplained injuries, they have changed their behaviors or routines. They have fearful or they're, fearful or upset of about their abuser. Please reach out for help. Please be a safe space for somebody.

Please believe victims, some lesser known but equally important ways to get help are hand. Signals such as with your palm, facing away from you, move your thumb across and lower your fingers into a light fist or, if you're in a bar and are worried about your safety. You can ask the bartender for an angel shot, which is code for asking for help. If you are someone you know is experiencing violence, it's not your fault. You can reach out to victimlink.gov.bc.ca or call 1-800-563-0808. Thank you. Do you remember.