Preparations are now underway for Domestic Violence Awareness Month

The Domestic Violence Task Force Committee is now busy preparing for the Domestic Violence Awareness Month, which will be observed in October 2004.

Workforce Investment Agency executive director Jess Stein will be working with the Commonwealth Football League committee on the white ribbon walk that is set to talk place in mid-October.

According to Esther Milne, publication committee coordinator for DVAM, the Department of Public Safety will manage the domestic violence prevention project.

The month will also include a canned food fundraising drive for domestic violence victims housed at the Guma Esperanza.

Toward the last week of the month, a candle light vigil will take place for all CNMI citizens to show their support toward the eradication and prevention of family violence in the community and to give victims the opportunity to come out and seek help.

“The vigil will be different this year. We want to be able to touch the people and their souls,” said Milne.

Further discussions on the planning will be held on Aug. 20 at the Guma Hustitia conference room. The committees will gather beforehand to gather ideas about the proposed activities for the month.

The Domestic Violence Awareness Month aims to provide the community with knowledge on the opportunities and available services for victims and abusers.

According to the Domestic Violence Awareness Month website, the many activities of the program is intended to mourn those who have died because of domestic violence, those who have survived, and to connect those who work to end the violence.

The different committees are working together to assist and inform the public on the issues dealing with domestic violence.

For those interested in this program, contact Milne at 323-1954. (Cassie DLG Fejeran)