Bruce County is voicing its support of Children’s Aid Societies in the province for the Dress Purple Day Campaign.
A release notes on Oct. 27, the county will be supporting the campaign which raises awareness about the important job communities and individuals play in supporting children, youth and families.
According to the Ontario Association of Children’s Aid Societies, the month of October has been used for almost 30 years as Child Abuse Prevention Month, reminding everyone about their roles in keeping children and youth safe.
The association says however, they have heard from marginalized families, especially from Black, African Canadian and Indigenous, the campaign’s goal of reporting, led to an unwarranted amount of surveillance of them.
Instead, the association has launched Dress Purple Day as a sign of support for those who are facing challenges and making sure children, youth and families have access to the support, information and resources they need.
Bruce County Warden Janice Jackson says we all have a role to play in caring for children, youth and families.
“This campaign in more important than ever, since the Covid pandemic has created additional stressors for families, and in some cases has increase risk of the well-being and safety of children and youth,” says Jackson.
The County’s Director of Human Services, Christine MacDonald says, “we want all children, youth, and families to know that help is available no matter the challenge they are facing.”
The county is encouraging residents to get involved with Dress Purple Day by sharing a supporting photo or video on social media, with the hashtag, #IDressPurpleBecause or #DressPurpleDay2021.
