"For the Love of My Sister" by Lynn Gallant Blackburn

LYNN GALLANT BLACKBURN

In December 2005, Paula Gallant, a 36-year-old mother and grade three teacher, was tragically murdered in Halifax. This devastating loss changed the course of Lynn's life.

Inspired by Paula's life and legacy, Lynn Gallant Blackburn is determined to find purpose in her sister's untimely death.  Lynn advocates for victims' rights, raises awareness about the impacts of violent crime, and actively works to end men's violence against women and girls. Through her personal experiences, she seeks to offer comfort and insight to other victims of domestic violence, reminding them they are not alone.

From a victim's perspective, she provides insight about her experience to politicians, the Nova Scotia Department of Justice, the public, the media and any other forum which gives victims a voice. She has presented her finding and recommendations to the Nova Scotia Department of Justice; The Canadian Criminal Justice Congress and she has been published in the 2009 National Victims of Crime Resource Guide with a feature called "How one victim of murder chose to be a survivor". She has been instrumental in influencing policy and legislative change in Nova Scotia and continues to create awareness about violence against women and the rights and needs of victims. 

For almost twenty years, Lynn has carried this story within her heart. On, December 5th, 2024, it would have been Paula's 55 birthday, and the day Lynn chose to release her new book called For the Love of My Sister, which has been published with generous support from Connect Women's Centres of Nova Scotia. Through her book, Lynn not only shares her personal story of loss but also serves as a voice for countless others impacted by domestic violence. Her work offers a unique and in-depth look at the systemic issues that survivors face, highlighting the need for societal change and support.

CORA COLE

Like many women, Cora cherishes her various roles in life, including daughter, friend, wife and Mum. She has spent nearly 20 years working in healthcare and the non-profit sector. While travel and hiking are favourite pastimes, cooking and baking edible food remain mysterious skills she has yet to master.  Thankfully, her writing is something others seem to enjoy.

 

For more information visit: https://womenconnect.ca/book-launch-gallant/

TOPICS OF CONVERSATION:

• The Personal Journey of Lynn and Paula: Exploring their bond, shared experiences, and the vivid memories that shaped their lives together.
• Transforming Grief into Advocacy: Lynn's strength in pushing for justice and improving support systems for victims' families.
• The Fight Against Gender-Based Violence: Insights from Cora's work and the broader societal conversation influenced by Paula's story.
• Justice System Challenges and Reforms: Key obstacles and the changes needed to better support victims' families and prevent violence against women.
• Paula’s Legacy and Looking Forward: How sharing her story inspires societal change and what’s next for Lynn in her journey.

FOR THE LOVE OF MY SISTER

The overwhelming sense of gratitude and love I felt at Thanksgiving, surrounded by my two sisters, their husbands and our five children, allowed me to finally exhale. With a sense of unimaginable contentment I finally let go of the breath I was holding since my parents died. This pure love carried me straight through to Christmas, until murder entered our lives.
This is a true story about how love never gives up. This is Paula Gallant's legacy.