NUSU pledges to end domestic violence

The Nipissing University Student Union (NUSU) and the One Pledge Campaign announced their partnership recently in a bid to end domestic violence.

The One Pledge Committee, comprised of Al McDonald, Mayor of North Bay; Shawn Devine, Chief of North Bay Police Services; and Janine Lafreniere, Executive Director of Nipissing Transition House, participated in a media conference announcing the partnership.

The pledge to end domestic violence will be signed by Nipissing University students this week as an acknowledgment of creating safe healthy relationships at home, at work and in the community, teaching children the value of a healthy relationship, and never condoning or committing acts of domestic violence.

“I am very excited that we have partnered with the One Pledge program,” said Jordan Andrews, NUSU president. “As students, it is extremely important that we stand in solidarity with the greater community of North Bay, and begin to have these conversations to stop the cycle of violence before it begins.”

The One Pledge Campaign launched its selfie campaign, in which students take photos as part of NUSU’s Wellness Week.

“The selfie campaign is a great way to have students participate and get the word out. With this generation engaging in more of an online capacity, more people will be reached with the message of ending domestic violence”, stated vice-president communications-elect, Tyrel Somerville.

The partnership was also celebrated by incoming NUSU student executives who will be leading the Student Union for the 2017-2018 academic year.

“Next year as NUSU president I look forward to working with One Pledge and our NUSU Cares Committee to promote a safe and supportive campus for all students by taking a stand against domestic violence," said Sydney Lamorea, NUSU president-elect.  "We encourage all students to make the pledge as a sign to those who are currently living, or have lived, with domestic violence, that they are not alone.”