Tuesday, October 25, 2011

Vigil for Domestic Violence Awareness Month


Domestic Violence Awareness Month Events Continue with Women Helping Battered Women’s 2011 Candlelit Vigil and Speakout

Women Helping Battered Women (WHBW) will  hold a Candlelit Vigil and Speakout to mark the  close of Domestic Violence Awareness Month on Thursday, Oct. 27, The event will begin on Church Street Marketplace in front of Burlington City Hall at 6:30 p.m. Following the vigil, participants will silently march down to Lake and College Building's second floor boardroom for a Speakout at 7 p.m. 

WHBW Executive Director Jane Van Buren will offer opening remarks preceding the Vigil ceremony. The Candlelit Vigil honors individuals who have been in abusive relationships and have been able to move forward in their lives free from abuse; individuals who are currently struggling in an abusive relationship; and also pays homage to those who have lost their lives due to abuse and violence in a relationship. Candles will be lit in honor of each. All are welcome and encouraged to attend this poignant ritual.

After a silent march to the Lake and College, the Speakout will be facilitated by Diana V. Perez,  a WHBW legal advocate. Perez hopes the Speakout will promote inspiration, empowerment and motivation. It will be a night to elevate the spirit, using sound and storytelling, she said. 

Victims/survivors, supporters and allies are welcome at this portion of the evening and may participate or choose to show their support by listening. However, confidentiality is assured in this setting, so media sources will be asked to remain outside following the silent march.

Founded in 1974 and serving Chittenden County, Women Helping Battered Women is the largest service provider for survivors of domestic violence in Vermont. It provides comprehensive services including: a 24-hour hotline, emergency shelter, children’s services, community education, legal advocacy, economic justice services and transitional housing.

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