Prince George's reputation has been subjected to a few blows lately as national studies come out placing the city near the bottom of the heap when it comes to crime.
But there's another side to the town, one that strives to protect its citizens from its criminal elements, including violence.
April 17 to 23 is prevention of violence against women week in Prince George, and a variety of organizations are combining efforts to offer a full week of events.
Here's an opportunity to show the city's other side - the one not highlighted in shameful studies. Next week is the time to gather with like-minded people and be heard.
Join the many locals raising their voices in unison to condemn violence against the most vulnerable people of the region -- women.
There's a perception that Prince George's residents - especially the men - don't care. That the majority of the city's citizens dismiss violence against women as being their own fault since they choose a risky lifestyle, choose to stay with the abusive husband or "asked for it."
The fact is many women who experience violence were victimized long before the beatings began. Most were exploited, debased and humiliated by people empowered with authority over them, leaving them with a warped view of themselves and the world.
Others were plucked at a point in their lives strategically chosen by their abusers - a time of heightened vulnerability -- and they were never to return from the paths chosen for them.
Plenty of people - and yes, even men - are aware and sensitive to the awful realities many women face.
If you are among those heartbroken by the Highway of Tears' historical legacy; if you are among those horrified by the disappearances of women off Prince George's streets; if you're among those worried over the fate of your own daughter, sister or mother - show it. Get involved. Especially if you're a man.
For decades women have led the fight to stop the violence against women and children. Violence that costs B.C.'s taxpayers $385 million a year and ends the lives of an average of 74 Canadian women a year.
This year, an organization most often associated with men is campaigning to get its members and clients to become "change makers."
The Northern John Howard Society offers a variety of programs for offenders and ex-offenders, including employment assistance, job coaching, referrals, family violence treatment, anger management counselling, volunteer co-ordination and youth advocacy.
And last week, the society launched a call to action encouraging anyone they can to sign a Change Maker's Pledge vowing to speak out against violence against women.
"It is our hope that when people see our male leadership making a stand opposing violence against women, change will begin to happen in our community," states the organization's campaign literature.
The society joins other organizations holding events throughout the city from Monday, April 18 to Saturday, April 23.
Gather with others, make a scene, allow no one to mistake silence to mean there's nothing wrong with "slapping her around" or "putting her in her place."
And let no one believe that the disappearance of any woman will go unnoticed.
