‘They aren’t alone’: 8th annual Hearts in the Park highlights need for community in struggle against domestic violence

Regina’s Hearts in the Park invited participants to write names on paper hearts to remember victims of crime and raise awareness of violence support.

Victoria Park was awash in paper hearts Wednesday as the 8th annual running of Hearts in the Park raised awareness of domestic violence in Saskatchewan.

Organized in collaboration with the Circle Project the Regina Police Service, and Family Service Regina, the event was marked by the sound of drums and the sight of vibrant red hearts.

“We have a lot of victims in Regina,” said Sgt. Ross Kauk, from the Regina Police Service. “We’ve brought this project to Regina, and it’s been fantastic at gaining awareness through the school system as people are growing up, making sure that they don’t become victims themselves or understanding if they are a victim, that they aren’t alone.”

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The event, now in its eighth year, aims to educate the public on recognizing the signs of domestic violence and how to support those who may be experiencing it. Beyond highlighting the importance of community in breaking cycles of violence, the annual event also acts as a venue of remembrance – honouring those lost to violent acts.

Those who took part were encouraged to mark a paper heart with the name of a loved one affected by violence.