The Honourable Pam Parsons, Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality, today met with leaders from the Coalition Against the Sexual Exploitation of Youth (CASEY) and other community agencies to proclaim May 8 to 12, 2023 as Stop Sexual Exploitation Week in Newfoundland in Labrador.
Stop Sexual Exploitation Week is a dedicated time to raise awareness of sexual exploitation and to share information and resources that are available to victims and their support networks. This year’s theme is “I am here,” which connects to the experiences of sexual exploitation victims and lifts up the support services that are available.
Sexual exploitation is the abuse of individuals in positions of vulnerability and dependency by individuals in positions of power and trust, with the goal of profiting monetarily, materially, socially or politically off the exploits of another person.
CASEY aims to support the development of community-identified needs, build supportive networks, and create a safer province for children, youth and adults free from sexual exploitation.
Through Budget 2023, the Office of Women and Gender Equality has allocated over $60,000 to CASEY to support initiatives that prevent sexual exploitation and support young people who have experienced, or are currently experiencing, sexual exploitation.
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“Ongoing and targeted work in areas such as violence prevention, justice, and social and economic well-being are integral to addressing factors that lead to sexual exploitation. I commend CASEY for their tireless work to support individuals who have experienced youth sexual exploitation.”
Honourable Pam Parsons
Minister Responsible for Women and Gender Equality
“This year’s theme for Stop Sexual Exploitation Week, “I am here,” acknowledges the responsibility of the public to be aware of sexual exploitation in our province. The experiences of people who have been sexually exploited matter. CASEY will continue to listen to victims and work with community and government to address issues pertaining to the sexual exploitation of youth.”
Jilian Nugent
CASEY Coordinator
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Learn more
Office of Women and Gender Equality
Coalition Against the Sexual Exploitation of Youth
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