Consulate signs memorandum with Hiatus House

By Mark Ribble

An important partnership was cemented last week as the Consulate of Mexico in Leamington hosted officials from Hiatus House to establish a collaborative framework to increase the protection of Mexican nationals who are victims of intimate partner violence.

The memorandum of understanding was signed at the Consulate by Mexican Consul Vanessa Calva Ruiz and Executive Director of Hiatus House Sylvie Guenther.

The memorandum of understanding will strengthen the local collaboration framework and resources that the consulate has to support Mexican victims of intimate partner violence and/or human trafficking by connecting them to services and support that Hiatus House offers.

This provides women and families a safe environment and supports them living empowered lives free of abuse.

From left, Sylvie Guenther, Executive Director of Hiatus House, Mexican Consul Vanessa Calva Ruiz and Leamington Mayor Hilda MacDonald.

SUN photo

Hiatus House will provide training to consulate staff and together they will promote campaigns and activities to prevent and eliminate all forms of intimate partner violence and bring awareness to the issue of human trafficking.

“The Government of Mexico welcomes the opportunity to join efforts with Hiatus House as part of our commitment to promote and defend the interest and right of women and girls,” said Consul Calva Ruiz. “This collaboration allows us to combine resources to better serve our community and joining other key community partners and authorities in raising awareness against intimate partner violence, human trafficking and abuse. Mexico’s feminist foreign policy will continue to promote women’s right by intersectional and transversal initiatives, recognizing our diversity and contributions.”

“Hiatus House is pleased to be entering into this relationship with the Consulate of Mexico in Leamington,” said Sylvie Guenther. “They are working with community partners to enable women who are coming to the Southwestern region of Ontario to have the best possible supports for success. We are working together to ensure that women can live in Windsor-Essex free of violence.”

The pair were joined by Leamington Mayor Hilda MacDonald, who added, “It is not enough to offer thoughts and prayers. We have to be partners and provide resources. They are all part of this community.”