DISTRICT 8 COUNCIL MEMBER MONIQUE ANDERSON-WALKER PARTNERS TO PREVENT DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

Prince George’s County Council Member Monique Anderson-Walker (D) – District 8, partnered with Progressive Life Center, Inc. and Community Advocates for Families & Youth (CAFY), to host the Removing the Mask Domestic Violence “Bystander” Symposium, on Saturday, September 21, at Our Savior Lutheran Church in Temple Hills. The program is supported through the Prince George’s County Council Domestic Violence Grant Program.

The Removing the Mask Domestic Violence “Bystander” Symposium provided training for domestic violence “bystanders,” focusing on identifying the signs of domestic violence; language and actions necessary to help victims of domestic violence; and steps to aid victims of domestic abuse. Also featured were testimonials, and Prince George’s County resources and services for victims and survivors.

Council Member Anderson-Walker stressed the importance of awareness and education as necessary tools for eradicating domestic violence from County communities.

“Statistics show that approximately 1 in 4 women, and 1 in 7 men, will experience domestic violence in their lifetimes. Given these numbers, it is possible that someone could encounter a victim of domestic abuse and not be aware or know how to help. Providing training to potential ‘bystanders’ enables them to better recognize domestic violence victims and empowers them to provide critical support.”

Special guests included Prince George’s County Chief Assistant Sheriff, Colonel Darrin Palmer; Progressive Life Center, Inc. Director, Evette Clarke; Department of Family Services Director, Jackie Rhone; and Boys 2 Bowties Founder, B.J. Paige.

Panelists provided an overview of domestic violence, the “red signs,” and resources. Council Member Anderson-Walker says panelists also discussed the impact of domestic violence on the larger community, urging residents to remain watchful and engaged on this critical issue.

“During the panel discussion, Colonel Palmer shared that a victim has likely experienced at least seven acts of domestic violence before calling for help. These are numbers we want to change. Open dialogue and educational sessions will help to prevent more domestic violence incidents and help survivors to thrive.” Council Member Anderson-Walker closed her remarks with a call for action for bystanders, “If you see something, say something! Let’s all do our part to end domestic violence.”

October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. To request assistance for a domestic violence crisis, call 2-1-1.

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