Dead End Street
This exhibit reflects the newer drugs - both legal and illegal - used on Calgary’s streets, and the fact that children are being introduced to drugs at younger and younger ages. This, along with the fact that the additives in today’s drugs make them more potent and addictive than ever before, means that children can now become addicted after a single use.
Children who visit this exhibit will follow the lives of four young people who give familiar and compelling reasons for starting to take drugs: one is lonely, one is bored, one is in pain and the other is mentally ill. Each persona explores and shares their experience interactively with the visitor, as they spiral downwards into addiction.
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Domestic Abuse and Family Violence
Professionals estimate that one in five school-aged children is witnessing or experiencing domestic abuse. The Calgary Police Service receives up to 900 calls per month related to domestic conflict. The primary objective of this exhibit is to teach that abuse is a crime, not a private family matter and should be reported.
Children who visit this exhibit will learn about the dynamics of an abusive home and why the victimized partner tends to remain in the relationship. The two most important messages for youth is that, first, no one has to tolerate abuse of any kind. Children have rights, including the right to seek help. Secondly, abuse in the home is not their fault. Unfortunately, many children blame themselves if they see a parent being abused, or if they themselves are being mistreated.
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Drinking and Driving
The drinking and driving display shows the devastation of this crime. Impaired driving became a huge concern for police. Deaths and injuries were often the result when people mixed drinking and driving. You’ll see photos of serious accidents that have been caused by drunk drivers. Many people find the display disturbing, but the Centre does not hide the ugly reality of crime. The photos are there to help visitors realize the importance of safe driving. There are also several facts about drinking and driving here that you can learn from.
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Harm’s Way
This new exhibit talks about the roots of youth violence and how unchecked bullying on the playground can lead to gang crime and violence. Exploring how the intrinsic human need for friendship - and sense of belonging - is used by both bullies and gangs as a weapon to gain power and prestige for themselves, this exhibit delves into the heart of relationships and demonstrates to children how the use of relational or physical violence ultimately falls short of its aim.
A highlight of the exhibit allows visitors to get inside the brain of both bullies and gang leaders, to understand the thinking that leads them to their various courses of action, and how that knowledge can leverage appropriate actions on the part of victims. Also, a display on homemade weapons and a discussion on girls and violence round out the experience for the visitor.
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