As domestic violence continues to be a national news topic, one group in Queens is taking a stand right here in our borough.
The Korean American Family Service Center hosted its 21st Annual Silent March Against Domestic Violence last weekend in an effort to raise awareness of the domestic violence and sexual assault that is prevalent in our communities.
While speaking out plays a big role in bringing awareness to the much-discussed issue, silence can also go along way toward bringing about change.
In the wake of the #MeToo movement, victims of domestic violence and sexual harassment have found a platform to share their stories in hope of creating change and a better future. And while many people have spoken and joined the movement, some have yet to find their voice.
With its silent march, the Korean American Family Service Center — a Flushing based group — has given those people a voice, too.
A handful of Queens elected officials joined the march, including state Sen. Toby Ann Stavisky, state Assemblymen Edward Braunstein and Ron Kim, state Assemblywoman Nily Rozic, and City Councilmen Peter Koo and Barry Grodenchik, among others.
The support of our lawmakers shows that we are all in this together. This is not a fight that should be fought alone. In fact, it is impossible for one person to do so.
The #MeToo movement has showed just how big of an issue domestic violence is and may be clearing a path to eventual victory.
Now, it is highly unlikely that the issue will go away for everyone. But if the movement and events like the recent silent march in Flushing help even one person, it’s worth it.
With an issue like domestic violence, progress is the key to success. And we have certainly seen progress in Queens and throughout the country.
The silent march is a good start, and there have been other events in the borough to help fight domestic violence.
Borough President Melinda Katz set up a public workshop entitled “Surviving Partner Violence & Abuse” scheduled for Oct. 12 at the Queens Family Justice Center in Kew Gardens.
The workshop is designed to empower survivors and service providers with information about the effects of intimate partner violence and how the trauma can be addressed.
This is a great start, but the fight must go on and the movement must continue to grow. We’ve made significant progress in Queens thus far, but there is still work to be done.
