For immediate release

Workshop at Kwantlen Promotes Greater Understanding of South Asian Family Needs

Metro Vancouver, BC - (April 13, 2012) - A training workshop for community and government service providers was held recently in Surrey on raising understanding of domestic violence issues as it affects South Asian families. "While domestic violence occurs in every community, the way it is responded to often differs from one cultural community to the next. The aim of the workshop was to increase the understanding of service providers, so they can better work with South Asian families," said workshop organizer Gary Thandi, of the Justice Institute of British Columbia.

The workshop emphasized the importance of considering factors such as the influence of extended family, the impact of immigration and the impact of gender role expectations on all members of the family with any type of work done with a family where domestic violence has occurred. Speakers, all of whom have had many years of experience working with South Asian families, also talked about specific skills that can be used in working with women, men and children. "The better the intervention, the better the outcome for the families," explained Thandi.

MC, Dr. Balbir Gurm, Kwantlen faculty stated "Although the workshop is focused on South Asians, it is important not to stereotype for there is as much difference within groups as across groups. It is important to understand the family dynamics and assumptions and this should be applied to all families and not just South Asians."

The workshop was delivered in partnership between DIVERSEcity Community Resources Society, the Justice Institute of British Columbia and Kwantlen Polytechnic University.
Another training workshop is planned for April 17th at Kwantlen Polytechnic University, Surrey Campus. For more information or to register, please contact gthandi@jibc.ca

Kwantlen Polytechnic University has been serving the Metro Vancouver region for 30 years, and has opened doors to success for more than 250,000 people. Four campuses—Richmond, Surrey, Cloverdale and Langley—offer a comprehensive range of sought-after programs, including business, liberal arts and science, design, health, trades and technology, apprenticeships, horticulture, and academic and career advancement. Over 17,500 students annually have a choice from over 200 programs, including bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, diplomas, certificates and citations.

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Joanne Saunders
Director, Marketing and Communications
Tel: 604.599.2243
joanne.saunders@kwantlen.ca