EDMONTON – Police are launching an initiative to stop sexual violence in Edmonton. Police say sexual assaults continue to be a problem in the city, and alcohol is often a factor.
The “Make Your Move” campaign is meant to push Edmontonians to get involved in helping to stop attacks.
“Make Your Move” is aimed at bar patrons, both men and women, and the main messages are simple but head-turning: look out for each other, get your friends home safely and never feel like you owe anyone anything,” says Staff Sgt. Shawna Grimes with the Sexual Assault Section.
Grimes believes too many people don’t provide assistance when they see someone who may need help because of a ‘it’s none of my business‘ attitude.
“Intervention, when safe to do so, can prevent a potentially harmful situation,” says Grimes.
There have been 374 sexual assaults reported to Edmonton police so far this year, which is already more than the previous two years.
“Hopefully part of it is education, and a number of these campaigns have come out. Events that have happened in the media that have generated discussions, helps encourage people to actually come forward and report, so we can see a spike in reporting because of that.”
READ MORE: Six to seven sexual assaults happen every weekend: Edmonton police chief
The campaign runs from Dec. 15 to Jan. 11, with posters being displayed in public washrooms of about 20 bars. Police will also use social media to promote the initiative.