IT may happen behind closed doors, it may even happen in public. Few may want to talk about it or admit that it’s happening. Some say it is none of our business. But it is time to speak up, says Ontario’s Peel Regional Police that covers the cities of Brampton and Mississauga.

Family and Intimate Partner Violence (FIPV) is unacceptable and bringing awareness to this serious issue is a worldwide effort.

Sunday, November 25 is both the “International Day of Ending Violence Against Women” and the United Nations “16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence”.

Peel Regional Police say they want to ensure you that they take all incidents of FIPV seriously and these investigations, along with protecting and helping victims and their families, are always a top priority. Officers dedicate an average of seven hours into every FIPV investigation where charges are laid. They also rely on their partner agencies to help during these cases. Victim Services of Peel is also there to stand with and support victims from start to finish.

The Kamal Dhillon story is a powerful account of not just being a victim of FIPV but overcoming the horror to become an author, inspirational speaker, and a counselor.

“Police are not the enemy. The enemy is the one living with you, that’s telling you not to report, to keep his crime a secret. They [Police] are here with resources. They are the good guys. And they will help you,” says Kamal.

If you know someone or are yourself a victim of FIPV, report it.

Call 9-1-1 if an emergency. For Non-emergency incidents call Peel Regional Police at 905-453-3311 or Victim Services of Peel at 905-568-1068.

For more information and the resources available to help, visit the Peel Regional Police website.

Watch the Kamal Dhillon VIDEO.