YWCA honors domestic violence victims with Remembrance Walk
By Jazmine Knight
The YWCA is hosting a series of events in honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Most recently they hosted their resource fair followed by a remembrance walk to recognize those who lost their life to domestic violence and its aftermath.
Corina Merritt, survivor outreach specialist with YWCA, says one out of four women and one out of seven men will experience domestic violence in their lifetime. She says Missouri has the third largest amount of domestic violence cases in the United States.
“It is a very serious subject that doesn’t get talked about as much as it should. It’s 100% preventable,” Merritt said.
At the YWCA, they believe education and awareness is the key to stopping domestic violence. According to Merritt, domestic violence can affect anyone. You never know when it could be your mom, your sister, your brother or anyone else you care about.
“You just never know when it’s going to go too far,” she said.
During the resource fair, the YWCA partnered with other local organizations to provide resources to those who may need it. Some of the participating organizations include Catholic Charities, United Way, InterServ, Stuber Health Care and the AFL-CIO.
Even though the resource fair provides many helpful resources, Merritt says she really likes seeing attendees go through the remembrance walk.
“Once people walk through it and read the signs, it really affects them. It puts it a lot more into perspective for people,” said Merritt.
Domestic Violence Awareness Month doesn’t stop there for the YWCA. Oct. 23 the YWCA and Nestle Purina will be hosting a pet protection playdate at Robidoux Park where there will be pup cups and purple leashes. On Oct. 24 is “ask me who I wear purple for” day where all of the community is invited to wear shades of purple. Lastly, on Oct. 25 Missouri Western will have a domestic violence awareness night at their soccer game that starts at 7 p.m.
For those who are experiencing domestic violence themselves or know someone who is, Merritt invites you to call their hotline to get the help you deserve.
“It’s not your fault and we believe you and all you have to do is reach out,” she said. “It doesn’t mean you have to leave your situation, sometimes just talking about it is the first step to get out of it.”
You can call the YWCA at (816) 232-4481.
