Domestic violence is an issue that affects women and men across the nation. Every day in the United States four women are killed by their abusive partners. In an effort to educate students about the dangers and harsh realities of violence Carolyn Thomas, a domestic violence survivor, spoke at an awareness seminar in the Memorial Student Center last Tuesday.Thomas is a domestic violence survivor of an attempted murder by her abusive ex boyfriend. On Dec. 5, 2003, she was shot point blank range in the face by the man she once loved. In the same incident the boyfriend also killed Thomas’ mother. Since the attack Thomas has undergone numerous surgeries in an attempt to reconstruct her face.
Thomas spoke to students and told her horrendous story about the many years of abuse she had suffered at the hands of her ex-boyfriend. She informed the audience about the warning signs of abuse, and how to detect them. She also urged those who know others in abusive relationships to reach out and help them. Thomas said that abuse is not always physical; there is also emotional abuse, spiritual abuse, financial abuse, and sexual abuse.
“I found Ms.Thomas’ speech to be very insightful. Her story proved that domestic violence is real and that anyone can be a victim. The fact that she refused to remain a victim and is now telling her story in an effort to help other people in abusive relationships is very heroic. She has really earned the title of an “Unforgettable Hero,” said Beveier Sanders.
Presently, Thomas is telling her inspirational story to people around the nation. She has appeared on various talk shows and news outlets including Oprah Winfrey, CNN, and The Insider. She is now the domestic violence spokesperson for the Family Abuse Center in Waco, Texas.
“My destiny is to save as many people as I can who are in abusive relationships. If you see someone in an abusive relationship do whatever you can to help them out of that relationship. If you, yourself, are being abused please contact your local agency and get help. You don’t want to end up like me, or worse,” said Thomas
If you or someone you know is being abused there are outlets here at Prairie View A&M University that can assist you. Please contact the Peace Project, Women Empowering Beyond (WEB), or the Department of Public Safety for assistance.