Text from CBC News
I wanted to commemorate this important day with a dedication to the memory of one of my classmates from Ryerson School of Fashion days, Jocelyn Juriansz. We had a great time while studying together, and we even took a school trip together to New York City (it was my first time). She was such a blessing in my life as I was going through great emotional upheaval then and she was always a spark of joy, a bundle of energy, and a whole lot of fun. Jocelyn was always the one in the group that shone the brightest and had infinite amounts of positive energy and happiness sorrounded her. She was creative and fun and always thought outside of the box. She interned at FLARE Magazine with the art deparment and was hired by the magazine after her graduation. She had also moved to LA to work with a graphics firm in 2002. She was talented and was starting a fantastic career.Some family business brought me back to BC after Ryerson and I lost touch with her. When I returned to Toronto and thought to look her up and found out that she had been murdered at the hands of her boyfriend. I was in shock and in rage at how someone could possibly do harm to such a warm soul. Our world is at a great loss without the contribution of her energy and enthusiasm. There has been a foundation set up in her name which rewards a Fashion student at Ryerson University who is in financial need, you can donate here.
Today I also came across this piece of news in the Toronto Star that sickened me. A Native woman was murdered by a man that she had brought to her apartment. There was clear signs of a real struggle in the apartment, and the neighbours heard screaming and yelling yet NO ONE called the police. How is that possible? Why don't people reach out to help those who may being hurt?
I feel such sadness reflecting on violence against women, as it can affect all women no matter their race, background, education, or social class. So what action can I take to against this huge problem? It is a question that I have been posing to myself since this summer as I was reading about the victims of the Highway of Tears in the Globe & Mail while on vacation in Muskoka. I haven't figured out my path just yet in this regard, but I am seeking out a way so that I can do my part.
Excerpt from Globe & Mail article by Andre Picard
See related post:
Not to be forgotten
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4 comments:
Unfortunately, this happens way too often to our women.
I know frightening statistics that are not improving. It breaks my heart.
I appreciated this post very much. I wonder if you might be interested in connecting with No More Silence. it's a fabulous toronto group of women that i co-founded in 2004 (Indigenous and allies) who are dedicated to raising awareness about the stolen sisters - they are currently planning the 5th february 14 memorial rally as well as a fundraiser to bring women together who are doing this work across the country - this weekend in winnipeg 'the meeting of the marches' will take place to discuss how we can coordinate our efforts...just a thought... nms meets about once a month and there is always great food.
Audrey - thank you for telling me about No More Silence. Is there a website where I can find out about the organization more? Would love to take part in the march?
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