In recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Neighborhood Service Organization (NSO) and the Michigan Coalition to End Domestic and Sexual Violence (MCEDSV) present the “Equity and Justice for Survivors,” a Domestic Violence Awareness Symposium. The event sheds light on domestic violence, the staggering disparities surrounding support for victims of domestic violence, and the importance of collective action to support survivors–including required training of law enforcement and other representatives. Black women face domestic violence at rates 30-50% higher than their white counterparts. The symposium takes place 8 a.m. to 11 a.m., Thursday, Oct. 31, at Wayne Community College Northwest Campus.
WDIV-TV’s Kimberly Gill will serve as moderator and Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib as the keynote speaker. Congresswoman Tlaib is an outspoken advocate for human rights and a powerful voice in addressing domestic and intimate partner violence and its devastating effects.
“Domestic abuse is the No. 1 reason women and children are homeless. At our women’s shelter and housing apartments, we see first-hand how the inequities in the system disproportionately impact women of color,” said Linda Little, president and CEO of Neighborhood Service Organization (NSO). “Access to support and services remains alarmingly uneven. This is why it’s crucial that we not only raise awareness but take action to close these gaps, ensuring all survivors, particularly those in marginalized communities, receive the help they deserve to rebuild their lives.”
The event will include an esteemed panel of community leaders and experts:
- Mary Sheffield, President, Detroit City Council
- Kenyatta Stephens, CEO, Black Family Development, Inc.
- Linda Little, President and CEO, Neighborhood Service Organization (NSO)
- Chéree Thomas, Co-Executive Director, Michigan Coalition to End Domestic and Sexual Violence (MCEDSV)
- Dr. Renee Canady, CEO, Michigan Public Health Institute (MPHI)
- Kim Trent, Deputy Director, Prosperity, Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO)
- Matthew Krumbach, Stop Grant Coordinator, Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards (MCOLES)
- Dr. Rose Moten, President and Founder, BLOOM Transformation Center
These distinguished guests will provide a comprehensive examination of domestic violence, focusing on prevention, support systems, and policy initiatives. The event aims to educate the public, spark dialogue, and highlight the essential services and programs that aid survivors.
This event is open to survivors of domestic abuse, community leaders, advocates, policy makers, and anyone interested in learning how to support the movement toward equity and justice for all survivors, especially women of color.
The symposium will address critical issues surrounding domestic violence, with a particular focus on its intersection with systemic inequities. Discussions will delve into the disparities in treatment and justice faced by women of color and highlight the need for legal reforms and policy changes to ensure fairness and protection for all survivors.
In addition to exploring strategies for mental health and trauma recovery, including for children affected by domestic violence, the event will emphasize the importance of supporting survivors with community-based resources and solutions. Empowering marginalized communities will be central to these conversations, as the symposium seeks to foster greater awareness, action, and solidarity for everyone in the ongoing fight against domestic violence.
Proceeds from the symposium will directly support victims and survivors of domestic violence, helping to provide critical resources and services for those affected by this issue.
“Victims and survivors of domestic violence must be believed, regardless of their race,” said Chéree Thomas, co-executive director of Michigan Coalitions to End Domestic and Sexual Violence. “Women must be treated and protected equitably by our society. This symposium, along with further support and services, can make this need a reality and a safer world.”
For questions or further information, please email corporateaffairs@nso-mi.org.
Event Details:
- Date: Thursday, Oct. 31, 2024
- Time: 8 a.m. – 11 a.m.
- Location: Wayne Community College Northwest Campus, 8200 Outer Dr. W. in Detroit
- Admission: The event is free to attend but a suggested donation of $10 is requested to Michigan Coalition to End Domestic and Sexual Violence
- Registration Link: tinyurl.com/DomesticAbuseSurvivors
- Donation Link: https://mcedsv.org/donations
About Neighborhood Service Organization
Neighborhood Service Organization (NSO), a Detroit-based integrated health and human service agency, delivers community-based services and holistic programs for vulnerable populations. The agency provides behavioral health and primary care services, in addition to wraparound services that address barriers to housing, health and well-being. NSO serves 12,000 people annually in Wayne and Oakland counties. Learn more by visiting www.NSO-MI.org. For more information and to discuss partnership opportunities with NSO Contact Corporateaffairs@nso-mi.org.
About Michigan Coalition to End Domestic and Sexual Violence
Michigan Coalition to End Domestic and Sexual Violence (MCEDSV) is dedicated to the empowerment of all the state’s survivors of domestic violence, sexual violence, and human trafficking. The organization’s mission is to develop and promote comprehensive efforts aimed at eliminating all forms of domestic and sexual violence, including human trafficking, in Michigan. MCEDSV is Michigan’s catalyst for creating empowered and transformed individuals, communities, and societies committed to building a lasting legacy of equality, peace and social justice, where domestic violence, sexual violence, and human trafficking no longer exists.
