For the ninth straight year, an event called ‘Breakfast With the Guys’ served as an outlet for the public to speak out against domestic violence.
“It’s an event that we hold annually, just to raise awareness and get the conversation started about domestic violence,” said Bill Kaye, the Project Coordinator for the Domestic Violence Action Team (DVAT) in Lethbridge. “It’s called ‘Breakfast With the Guys’ because it’s not a women’s issue – it’s truly a man’s issue.”
Many gathered Tuesday morning at the Lethbridge Lodge for breakfast and a spirited discussion about domestic violence. The guest speaker at the event was Trevor Stuart. Stuart has been climbing mountain peaks around the world to help raise money for the YWCA Lethbridge and District. His next conquest is scheduled for April, when he plans to summit Mount Everest.
“It’s very motivational listening to Trevor,” said Kaye. “His story is quite interesting, and to have him come out and speak with us is a pleasure.”
During the presentation, Stuart talked about his abusive childhood and living in a volatile situation.
“I was raised in a home where domestic violence was rampant,” said Stuart. “When I was little, I was scared, confused and wished someone would help. My father told our family if we reported the violence he would harm, or kill us; so we kept quiet.”
It’s the reason Stuart is such a strong voice against domestic violence. He shares his story so others know what many families are forced to endure on a daily basis.
Kaye believes bringing people together to discuss the issue is critical.
“Domestic violence touches every community in North America,” said Kaye. “I think it’s important that we have these discussions and we take care of this issue of domestic violence through awareness and education.”
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