Peace from Domestic Violence Walk draws hundreds of supporters to Washington
The Peace From Domestic Violence Walk proceeded along Beau Street in Washington, Pa. The walk was organized by Domestic Violence Services of Southwestern Pennsylvania, which assists victims from Fayette, Washington and Greene counties.
October is the month designated to bring awareness to domestic violence.
Sherry Bennet was one of several hundred people who marched this weekend to raise awareness about domestic violence. She knows the pain that victims feel and wants to reassure those individuals that they are not alone.
“I’m here today to give a voice to those who don’t have a voice,” said Bennett, a resident of Washington County, and a victim of domestic abuse. “It’s time that victims of domestic violence get the word out that we aren’t going to take it anymore. Hopefully this march will be a step in the right direction.”
Organized by Domestic Violence Services of Southwestern Pennsylvania (DVSSP), the third annual Peace from Domestic Violence Walk kicked off a number of activities that will be held in the area to commemorate Domestic Violence Awareness Month. DVSSP assists victims of domestic violence in Fayette, Washington and Greene counties.
Alexandra Brooks, prevention education coordinator for DVSSP, said that domestic violence is more prevalent than most people think.
“In the United States, nearly three women are murdered every day by a husband or boyfriend,” she said. “Domestic violence also involves blood relatives. In all cases, domestic violence comes down to power and control. Events such as this one help to separate the myths from the facts.”
Brooks added that victims of domestic violence can turn to agencies like DVSSP for help.
“If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence, the first step is to call our hotline at 800-791-4000,” she said. “We have a team of trained counselors who are on call 24/7. They will explain your options. Our goal is to empower victims so they can make a decision that’s best for their own situation.”
As the local domestic violence organization serving the region, DVSSP provides over 8,621 shelter nights to women and children each year. DVSSP also offers a wide range of programs throughout the year, including a pledge signing event on Father’s Day and domestic violence prevention seminars in local schools.
Suzanne Kelley, a resident of Washington, took part in the walk to memorialize Dalia Sabae, a Canonsburg woman who was shot and killed by her husband, Michael Cwiklinksi, last year.
“I never knew Dalia but I feel a deep bond with her,” said Kelley. “I’m marching with a team called ‘Dalia’s Voice’ to help create awareness and raise money that can be used for programs that help victims of domestic violence.”
State Representative Brandon Neuman, D-North Strabane Township, spoke to the group before they started the march and urged them to get the word out about domestic violence.
“We all need to work together to put hate in the past and seek love in the future,” he said. “We will keep marching as long as it takes to eradicate domestic violence.”