Students rise up against interpersonal violence

Students from Battleford Central School and Bready School from Living Sky School Division No. 202 are raising awareness about interpersonal violence worldwide; specifically in Saskatchewan communities.

The Grade 5 and 6 students have been taking part in a program called Youth Rising since January, which is modelled after One Billion Rising; a campaign to end violence against women. The program is meant to teach students about interpersonal violence, and encourage them to maintain a healthy lifestyle physically, mentally and socially. Additionally, Youth Rising aims to help the students understand they have the power to make a positive impact in their community.

“We saw a lot of interpersonal problems in the younger grades,” Jessica Labman, the coordinator of Youth Rising and school counsellor of Living Sky School Division #202, said. “We are trying to help them [maintain healthy lifestyles] by getting them engaged in the community, creating active lifestyles, increasing self-esteem, and feeling connected to their schools and the community.”

Approximately 150 students will be filming a choreographed dance in their schools today and on Main Street in Battleford to the song Breaking the Chain by Tena Clark. The footage will then be edited into a music video.