Yellowknife, N.W.T. - The Coalition against Family Violence held their opening address as they launched the 12th annual Family Violence Awareness Week at the Salvation Army Friday afternoon.

The theme of this year's week is "Stand with Us to Stop Family Violence", which is geared towards the youth within the communities to try and help stop the violence from spreading to another generation.

The minister responsible for Status of Women, Bob McLeod, said to help youth achieve that, they have to be given one thing.

“Knowledge and awareness of what family violence is and that a choice can be made to not be a victim or an abuser."

He added youth must be the catalyst of change to stop family violence.

"We need out youth to challenge the attitude and behaviors that condone family violence. We need you to stand up and say family violence is everyone’s business; it is not a private family matter. We need to promote the fact that violence is deliberate and people need to be accountable for their actions."
 
The Take Back the Night Walk is the first event to kick off the week and it took place on Friday night at Somba K'e Park.
 

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