LOCK HAVEN, Pa. – Commonwealth University – Lock Haven’s HOPE center held a vigil on the evening of Oct. 17 to commemorate Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) and raise awareness about the issue within the Lock Haven campus community.
The Poorman Amphitheater was decorated in purple, and light refreshments were offered, as well as stickers and other memorabilia in support of victims and survivors. While seated, attendees had time to observe the posters around the event depicting domestic abuse statistics:
- In 2022, 104 victims died from domestic Violence in PA.
- Per year, 10 million people become victims of domestic violence in the U.S.
- 1 in 3 women experience domestic violence.
- 1 in 9 men experience domestic violence.
HOPE Center’s Graduate Assistant Megan Wien welcomed all attendees and warmly recited the organizations mission:
“To support, empower and enlighten all students about issues with sex, gender, sexual violence, personal safety and health, social justice and educational equity. The programs across campus are designed to foster open discussion and intellectual exchange about these issues to promote an overall sense of well being and create a safe campus climate for all.”
The floor was then opened to the first guest speaker, Kenny Hall, who is the Director of the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. The core message of his speech revolved around the notion that domestic violence fundamentally distorts one’s perception of what constitutes a healthy relationship. Hall noted that not only do victims of domestic violence often find themselves trapped in a cycle of abuse, but that family members and friends of victims can fall into damaging cycles as well, making it difficult for them to distinguish between love and control. He emphasized that domestic violence can sweep through “generations and generations” of people. In closing, Hall saluted victims and survivors for their courage and highlighted resources and support that the HOPE Center offers to students.
Following Hall was the Roads to Peace Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Educator and Volunteer Coordinator, Cheyenne Brickley. The speaker began by acknowledging the pervasive nature of domestic violence, highlighting that it knows no boundaries and affects individuals of all backgrounds. Brickley underlined the urgent need for proactive measures to prevent such incidents and the necessity of fostering a culture of awareness and discussion.
At the conclusion of the event, an open mic session provided a platform for victims and survivors to share their personal experiences, fostering a supportive and empathetic atmosphere for those affected by domestic violence. Like the butterfly effect, multiple victims and survivors were inspired by one another to step forward, and most of them began their speeches with the phrase, “I wasn’t planning on speaking tonight.”
The DVAM vigil stands as a powerful testament to the strength of the Lock Haven community and the HOPE center’s unwavering commitment to support domestic violence victims and raise awareness. The event, marked by somber reflection and heartfelt remembrance, has illuminated the darkness that often shrouds this issue.
As they stand united to remember and honor survivors, they also look forward with renewed determination. The vigil has not only served as a crucial platform for raising awareness but has ignited a spark within each of us to be vigilant, proactive, and empathetic. It has underscored the importance of open discussions, providing a safe space for survivors to share their stories, and offering support without judgment.
Resources and Hotlines
Roads to Peace
Clinton County Help Center, Inc.
34 West Main Street
Lock Haven, PA 17745
Roads to Peace 24/7 hotline –(570) 748-9509
HOPE Center – 570-484-2111
National Domestic Violence Hotline – 800-799-7233
