The road leading to the Qimaavik Women's Shelter renamed to combat family violence

The road leading to the Qimaavik Women's Shelter in Apex now bears the name Angel Street, in honour of those whose lives have been affected, or ended, by family violence.

Singer-songwriter Lucie Idlout gave a live performance of the song from which the street got its new moniker, with particular emphasis on its namesake lyrics: "Broken down on Angel Street, he pushed you down, made you unseen."
Idlout said she was surprised and happy when she heard the city's plans.

"It sent shivers down my spine, because I think it's a really good way to bring light to the issue in a positive way," said Idlout, who travelled from Toronto for the performance.

While the song, "Lovely Irene," was originally written for a specific friend of hers, the message is much broader.

"I don't think I know anybody who hasn't seen violence in one way or another," Idlout said.
Iqaluit Mayor Elisapee Sheutiapik came up with the idea to rename the street during the Status of Women conference held in Iqaluit in July, after hearing Idlout perform the song at a banquet.