The Utah Domestic Violence Coalition is sponsoring a candlelight vigil today designed to raise awareness to the issues relating to domestic violence.
The gathering will be held in room 201 of the Provo Library at 7 p.m. and will last 45 minutes to an hour. The event is free to the public.
It will feature stories of those affected by domestic violence, a candlelight ceremony for those who have lost their lives to domestic violence and music by Colby Stead, who will preform songs about recovering from abuse.
“Colby Stead will be our highlight and I can promise you there won’t be a dry eye in the house,” said Carole Kamradt, family program coordinator for the Center for Women and Children. “It’s always a profound experience to hear the stories of survivors, it’s always a spiritual experience.”
October is domestic violence awareness month and the event is designed to shine a light on the issues surrounding domestic violence.
Kamradt said all are welcome to attend the event even if they haven’t been directly affected by domestic violence.
“Once you spend some face time and get to know the stories of domestic violence survivors then it becomes personal,” she said. “We strongly encourage anyone to attend.”
According to the Center for Women and Children in Crisis, domestic violence is not limited to physical, sexual or emotional abuse. Domestic violence occurs any time one partner is trying to control, hurt or degrade the other partner. Domestic violence support and educational groups are available by calling the hotline at 801-377-5500.
Lanae Valentine, director of Women’s Services and Resources, said there are resources available at BYU for students involved in cases of abuse.
“We want students to understand what abuse is and that it’s not OK,” Valentine said. “Students can stand up and help prevent abuse even before it happens.”
Valentine said she encourages students to visit VoicesOfCourage.byu.edu to learn more about domestic violence and how to help prevent abuse.
For information about today’s event or to learn about the coalition visit ucdvc.blogspot.com.
