NEWS RELEASE
HURONIA TRANSITION HOMES
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The Barrie Colts are hosting the annual OHL ONSIDE event in support of ending gender-based and sexual violence with Athena’s Sexual Assault Counselling & Advocacy Centre, a program of Huronia Transition Homes.
The event will take place on Saturday, Feb. 17, when the Colts take on the Ottawa 67’s.
The OHL ONSIDE program is an initiative between the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), and the Ontario Coalition of Rape Crisis Centres. The project aims to increase the understanding and awareness of players’ responsibility in demonstrating respect for women and gender-diverse people through actions and words.
The project was developed as a two-hour workshop that covers gender stereotypes, sexual violence, and focuses on promoting respectful relationships.
“It’s essential to create space for naming the problem of sexual violence, and to work to deconstruct harmful norms so that we can build a culture of consent,” says Kelly Redmond, program supervisor of Athena’s. “The ONSIDE program demonstrates a step in the right direction, but more is still needed to affect real and lasting change.”
Barrie Colts officials share, “The entire Colts organization is pleased to work with the OHL ONSIDE program. As an organization, we have a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to sexual harassment and any type of sexual violence. In partnership with our local sexual assault centre, the workshops and training sessions help in our continuous efforts to educate our players and staff that through their actions and words, we can ensure respectful relationships with all genders.”
The evening’s events will include an information table for Athena’s, and a Chuck-a-Puck fundraiser. Tickets can be purchased online or at the Colts Store.
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