Mothers x 3 – what to do about crime

Winnipeg has once again been declared the murder and violent crime capital of Canada. This means we are also the victim capital of Canada. And even though many may not have experienced crime first-hand, we all feel the aftershocks every time we hear of another murder or another attack and wish things would be different – better.

Three mothers have been invited to Winnipeg to discuss this issue of murder and violent crime. They have one thing in common, the murder of their three daughters.

Priscilla de Villiers is a Canadian activist. She is the founder and past president of CAVEAT, an organization advocating for change in government policy on crime. She serves on the Advisory Committee on Victim Issues to the Policy Centre on Victim Issues, Department of Justice, Canada, and is also a member of the Ontario Office for Victims of Crime. She has devoted herself to making Canadian communities safer by mobilizing public opinion in favour of stiffer sentences and tougher parole requirements.

Lesley Parrott is a respected and successful professional in the field of advertising and consulting. She brings a unique blend of corporate and real life experiences to the table and speaks with passion, an inspired sense of caring, and understanding. She is a board member, facilitator and organizer for the Bereaved Families of Ontario.

Wilma Derksen has dedicated the last 20 years to developing supports and services for victims of violent crime. Her commitment, compassion and vision have led her to be a founding member of Child Find Manitoba, direct a program called Victims’ Voice, speak across Canada and beyond on restorative justice, victim rehabilitation and forgiveness. She sits on the Advisory Committee on Victim Issues for the federal government.

These three mothers will be getting together for one day to have a conversation about their experiences, their visions for a safer world, and their hopes for a better justice system. The public has an opportunity to listen to their conversation on March 21 at 7:00 at The Inn at the Forks. Call 204-925-3410 to reserve your tickets.