Candlelight Service in Memory of Brenda Ann Healey and in Recognition of International Women’s Day
Published: March 5th, 2010
The York Regional Police Community Services Bureau is extending an invitation to the media and the public on behalf of the family of Brenda Ann Healey to participate in a candlelight service in her memory and a celebration of International Women’s Day.
The service will be held on Monday, March 8, 2010, beginning at 7 p.m. in the Great Hall of the York Region Administrative offices located at 17250 Yonge St, Newmarket.
Following a native drum ceremony, the Healey family will be joined by York Regional Police Chief Armand LaBarge, Newmarket Mayor Tony Van Bynen, Karen Simmonds Coordinator of Bereavement Service at Hospice King / Aurora, Joe Wamback of the Canadian Crime Victims Foundation, Lorris Herenda, Executive Director of Yellow Brick House along with family and friends of Brenda Ann Healey.
International Women’s Day is a day of global celebration for the economic, political and social achievements of women past, present and future, held annually on March 8th.
On this day, thousands of events are held throughout the world to inspire women and celebrate achievements. A global web of rich and diverse local activity connects women from all around the world ranging from political rallies, business conferences, and government activities and networking events through to local women’s craft markets, theatrical performances, fashion parades and more.
The global theme for 2010 International Women’s Day is equal rights, equal opportunities; progress for all. Men and women are encouraged to unite to eliminate all violence against women. This is especially poignant for the Healey family, who lost their daughter to violence.
On Saturday, March 8, 2008, officers were investigating the disappearance of Brenda Ann Healey, 27, of Newmarket, when they were advised of a suicide investigation involving a male party in Durham Region. As a result of investigation, officers attended a High Street home in the Town of Georgina and discovered the body of Ms. Healey.
Donations will be accepted by the family at the service and will be donated to assist victims of violence.
For more information, please contact Constable Carol Hamilton, Victims Assistance Officer, at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 6649.