Statements:

The White Ribbon Campaign of Vermont, men working to end violence against women, joins with our brother members of the Northeast Kingdom White Ribbon Campaign in expressing its disappointment that the Caledonia-Record has chosen to use misinformation and fear in opposing the creation of a shelter in the St. Johnsbury area for battered women and their children. We are strong supporters of Umbrella and its efforts to support and shelter women and children in Caledonia county. In fact we fully support all the agencies around the state that are members of the Vermont Network Against Domestic and Sexual Violence. All have worked for decades in both intervention against and prevention of violence against women. Their programs have helped tens of thousands of women and children escape and survive violent and abusive men. Their work in outreach education in Vermont schools brings important information about bullying, dating and domestic abuse, and sexual assault and rape to middle and high school boys and girls throughout Vermont, helping them recognize the early signs of violence and abuse, as well helping them to find ways to develop healthy relationships. We must be mindful that there are some women, in seeking to escape from abusive relationships, who do not have any other place to go. Physical shelters are the answer for many of these women and children. The White Ribbon Campaign of Vermont knows that these shelters are havens of safety, support and significant assistance to women and children in finding new directions for their lives. As Vermont men, we are hopeful and confident the people of Caledonia county will welcome this shelter with open arms and understanding, and in recognition that this is a part of building non-violent, healthy neighborhoods for our sons and daughters.

On behalf of the White Ribbon Campaign of Vermont
Ron Redmond & Stephen McArthur, Co-Chairs