The Portage Friendship Centre held an "All My Relations" workshop last week. Insight Mentor Debbie Parker says the program helps people learn how to recognize violence and work toward healthy relationships, noting they incorporate aboriginal culture into the workshops as well. Parker says many people grow up not knowing what a healthy relationship looks like and they've "normalized" being beaten by their significant others. She notes it isn't just men who commit violence in these situations, because women do it, too. Parker adds all these things are happening in our community, so they just want to help people understand that they can deal with relationships in a better way.

She says the workshop incorporates the seven sacred teachings which include courage, truth, love, wisdom, and honesty. Parker notes implementing these positive things in one's life can reduce the violence in our homes, adding that's especially important when there are children involved. She adds she believes children are sacred because they're the closest to the creator. Parker says she grew up in a violent atmosphere and it affected her for a very long time, noting children shouldn't have to see that kind of behaviour in the people they love. She adds these workshops at the Friendship Centre can help folks recognize that there are positive steps you can take if you want to stop violence in the home and in the community.