A group of men, women and children along with city officials joined the Sisters Empowerment Network at the city of Riverdale Police Department on Tuesday, Oct. 18, 2011, for a candlelight vigil to honor the 81 Georgia victims whose lives were taken due to domestic violence.
The vigil was designed to bring awareness to domestic violence issues in our communities. Some amazing women attended the event and shared their stories. There were testimonials of women struggling with emotional and physical abuse, messages of hope from survivors, and a musical tribute.
Domestic violence victims emerge from some of the most unlikely environments: they are corporate executives, first ladies, our mothers and daughters. They are the cashier at the grocery store, the bank teller, the nurse at the hospital. The face of domestic violence encompasses all races, ethnicities and ages. It doesn’t belong to a particular religion or income level. There are no distinctive marks because domestic violence does not discriminate.
Sisters Empowerment Network hopes to shine a light on what is often considered a hidden epidemic. It is important for us to recognize the warning signs that could indicate someone is a victim of domestic violence. If you or someone you know is in a violent relationship and need to seek help, you can contact Sisters Empowerment Network at (678) 642-5633. –al weems
