Six local organizations unite to shine a light on domestic violence

In honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, six local organizations have joined forces to raise awareness at an upcoming event entitled, “Breaking the Silence.”                                                                          

“Breaking The Silence” will take place on Thursday, October 28, 2021, from 6 pm to 9 pm at 121 Washington Ave N, Minneapolis MN 55401. The event aims to raise awareness on what exactly domestic violence is and provide information to identify signs and prevent abuse.

The evening will consist of powerful and positive stories, monologues, poems, and songs from women that survived domestic abuse. Brothers Empowered will make a united oath/stance and call for men to hold each other accountable for their behavior toward women and children. A short skit performed by Constance Anderson, a local actress/educator and actor/singer Rico Nevotion. The evening will close with a special tribute to the lives lost to domestic violence.

One in three women have been involved with an abusive partner. Worldwide, domestic and reports of family violence have increased significantly since the start of the pandemic.

In Minnesota, intimate partner homicides rose 40% in 2020. A report released in late September by Violence Free Minnesota revealed that last year, Minnesota had 30 known victims of intimate partner homicide. The report also found that 40% of domestic violence homicide victims were Black.

Domestic violence victims account for a quarter of violent crime victims in Minnesota. Sadly, an estimated 80% of domestic assaults go unreported.

“Breaking the Silence”, organized by Brittney Kline and Tephanie Delaney, a local businesswoman, and survivor is free to attend with appetizers and beverages available. Community organizations working in partnership to bring hope, healing, and awareness are Hands-2-Hand Development Resources, TruSisterHood Organization, Kissy Stay Put Services, Twin Cities Natural Hair & Beauty Expo, and Brothers Empowered.

In-person space is limited and pre-registration is required at bit.ly/breakingthesilencemn.