Cambridge College Launches Campaign Against Domestic Violence

T-shirt display at Cambridge College Event: Campaign Against Domestic Violence

Article written by Community Works blogger Dylan Manderlink

October 17, 2012 – 1000 Mass Ave, Cambridge College, Cambridge, MA

We hear the startling statistics, read the appalling facts, and see reports too frequently on the news about domestic violence, rape cases, sexual harassment, and partner abuse, but how often do we hear stories of strength, survival, and empowerment? Cambridge College and Cambridge city officials along with local non-profits want to promote a shift in conversation regarding domestic violence and sexual assault.

The Cambridge Campaign Against Domestic Violence aims to open a much needed dialogue in the Cambridge community and beyond. They want to talk about domestic violence prevention and how community members can have a hand in alleviating the pain and suffering of victims and their families. Victims and advocates are encouraged by this group to feel safe and comfortable while asking questions, educating themselves and others, and speaking out.

On October 17^th from 4 to 7 PM at Cambridge College, non-profit representatives, advocates, campaign partners, and supporters came to commence the “21 Days of Questions, 356 Days of Action” activism and awareness campaign. This campaign launch event was filled with information tables, providing promotional and educational materials on behalf of the Cambridge Women’s Commission, Cambridge Public Health Department, BARCC (Boston Area Rape Crisis Center), Cambridge Health Alliance, Respond Inc. (a domestic violence support organization), Violence Transformed (an organization that celebrates the power of art to challenge and mediate violence), and many other public service partners. Among these informational outlets was a table devoted to an awareness photo-campaign and a section where people could write down anonymous questions concerning domestic violence and sexual abuse.

The supportive and encouraging atmosphere that was created through helpful Q & A sessions, anonymous question boxes, informational tables, musical entertainment, and guest speakers, allowed victims and their loved ones to have their stories heard.  Attendees communicated through music, open dialogue, or the t-shirt designing art installation.

T-shirt created by attendee at the event

This t-shirt making activity was a focus of the evening, allowing people to write a personal statement or experience on the front of a t-shirt and hang it up on a clothes-line. This fixture in the room became a powerful statement within itself and was showcased in the center of the venue. The creative project helped mold an empowering story of the transformative effects positive awareness, outreach, and prevention programs can have on victims of domestic abuse and sexual assault.

Statistics provided by non-profits and city partners were hung up and powerfully displayed around the room, serving as constant reminders of the hope and positive change that can come through adversity. Statistics such as “1 in 4 women will experience an abusive relationship in their lifetime” and “1 in 10 Cambridge high school students reported being sexually harassed at school,” helped give attendees perspective on an issue that is so much larger than all of us combined. It’s hard to wrap our minds around a problem that our society has faced for so long and that is unfortunately still so prevalent. But with events and campaigns like the Cambridge Campaign Against Domestic Violence as well as their “21 Days of Questions, 365 Days of Action,” the public continues to learn how to combat this major violation against humanity.

Domestic violence, sexual assault, and rape are crimes and the Cambridge Campaign Against Domestic Violence not only supports this notion, but is doing something to inspire change. This campaign launch event successfully provided victims with support and helped give a public voice to such a personal issue. Not only was this awareness and advocacy event helpful for victims, but it served to educate the general public as well. Cambridge College and their non-profit partners recognize that sensitive topics like domestic violence and sexual assault aren’t given the attention they deserve and by launching a campaign that will last throughout the year, they are making an incredible difference.

 

Visit these Community Works’ member organization sites to learn more about Domestic Violence Awareness and Prevention

Emerge – http://www.emergedv.com/

Jane Doe Inc. – http://www.janedoe.org/

Association of Haitian Women of Boston – www.afab-kafanm.org

The Women’s Center, Inc. – www.cambridgewomenscenter.org