Domestic Violence Awareness Month observed
Film, discussion and workshop help to educate
During October, the community observes Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Participants might be seen wearing purple ribbons as a show of their fight against domestic violence and others may choose to observe it in other ways. Purple ribbons are available for those who wish to wear one at Shalom Park, 5007 Providence Rd., and show that you are a warrior in the fight against domestic abuse!
And, as part of that reflection, seven organizations — Shalom Bayit of North Carolina, Jewish Family Services, Levine-Sklut Judaic Library, Charlotte Jewish Film Festival, Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte, LoveSpeaksOut and Mecklenburg Ministries — are teaming up to help bring enlightening programs to help educate the public on this often ignored issue.
Abuse is happening in the Jewish community more often than most think. We see it, but rarely believe it. Usually, we call it something else: bad temper; poor judgment; rough day at work; he didn’t mean it; she’s a real klutz; he drinks too much; they just don’t get along. It might be your mother, your best friend, your teenage son or a sister. Some are beaten with fists, but more often they are traumatized by words and actions that humiliate and demean, for the goal of the abuser is total power and control over this one person.
On Oct. 6, 5 p.m., a film and interfaith panel discussion will be held at the Sam Lerner Center for Cultural Arts, Shalom Park. Attendees will be able to screen “I Believe You: Faiths’ Response to Intimate Partner Violence.” This nationally-acclaimed documentary explores stories of survivors of abuse and how clergy and faith groups have advocated for and helped those harmed by abuse.
The film was produced by David and Debra Vinick, with the support of The New York Board of Rabbis, United Methodist Women, National Council of Churches, Presbyterian Women, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, and a consortium of Muslim organizations.
Admission is free and open to the public.
On Oct. 27, 1:30 p.m., a “Help Your Tween/Teen Feel Safe” parent workshop will be held at the Sam Lerner Center.
It is presented by LovesSpeaksOut’s Ann Kreidler-Siegel, LCSW, SEP (psychotherapist in private practice) and Melissa Siegel (National Youth Advisory Board chair at Love Is Respect).
Did you know that one in three teens will experience abuse in a dating relationship, yet 80 percent of parents are unaware of what their child is experiencing? It’s never too early to talk to your child about healthy relationships.
Parents will learn: What age group is at greatest risk of sexual assault? When is texting abusive and how many teens experience it? Where is dating violence most likely to occur? To whom do teens go when it happens? Learn about prevention and become familiar with the world of cyberabuse/textual harassment, the signs and symptoms of an abused or abusive person, and what you can do to help. The program is a must for any parent.
Admission is free and open to the public. However, an RSVP is requested by Oct. 14.
Call 704-364-6594 or email info@jfscharlotte.org to sign up for the workshop or for more information.
Marsha Stickler, director of Shalom Bayit of North Carolina, said that they are looking for volunteers to help serve as greeters, etc., or who might enjoy baking for the parent event. Email info@shalombayit-nc.org to join in.
info: shalombayit-nc.org. jewishcharlotte.org. jfscharlotte.org.