The P.E.A.C.E. Project, and Focusing Families, in collaboration with the Eta Beta Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. hosted a candlelight vigil in the Memorial Student Center ballroom Wednesday, Oct. 18, in remembrance of those who lost their lives to domestic abuse. The organizers read 143 names of people who died as a result of domestic abuse. They also recognized the ages of victims, and where they were from. Each time a name was read, a candle was blown out to signify the person’s death.
Senior Janelle Singleton shared some domestic violence statistics during the ceremony. “Domestic violence is the leading cause of injury to women between the ages of 15 and 44 in the United States – more than rapes, muggings, and automobile accidents combined.”
Heather Stautmeister, executive director of Focusing Families, said, “It is really imperative that a victim of domestic violence get help. If you know someone who is a victim of domestic violence, advise them to get help, but don’t get involved.”
Singleton said, “A woman is beaten every nine seconds, and around the world, at least one in every three women has been beaten, coerced into sex, or otherwise abused during her lifetime.”
Every 15 seconds a person dies from domestic abuse. A bell was rung every 15 seconds for approximately three minutes during the ceremony to represent this statistic.
The ceremony ended with a live performance by the Charles Gilpin Players titled, “No More Tears,” a drama that symbolizes the effects of domestic abuse.
Mollene Williams, program director of the P.E.A.C.E Project, said, “There are resources on campus. If you are in a violent relationship, seek help, that is what we are here for. People don’t know that there are resources available; most victims keep it to themselves.”
The P.E.A.C.E. Project can be contacted in the Owens Franklin Health Center or by telephone at extension 2008. Focusing Families can be contacted by telephone at 979- 826-3290.