On the afternoons of Oct. 15 and 16, the Women’s and Children’s Alliance (WCA) teamed up with the Women’s Center for an annual event to raise awareness about domestic violence and let those facing it know there is help available. This event was put on because October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
“I think it was a great inspiration to see all of these fearless T-shirts on the SUB (patio)” said Emily Benson, freshman mass communication major.
Those involved in this project were encouraged to create a shirt which demonstrated pride in healthy relationships. Over 60 businesses in the Treasure Valley area have agreed to hang the shirts in their offices; hence its title, “The Clothesline Project.”
“It’s things like these that make me cherish how special my relationship is with (my boyfriend) Jade,” said Beth Milgate, freshman speech therapy major.
Though the entire event ran smoothly, the weather on Tuesday was
anything but.
Because it was rained out very early on the second day, the Women’s Center and WCA moved inside of the Student Union
Building.
Here they continued to answer questions and hand out brochures, cards, and pens on how to help a loved one facing abuse or violence in the home or in a relationship, how to get involved by volunteering, or what to do if you are personally a victim of domestic violence.
“Be strong and know there are always resources out there to help you,” said Danielle McNeal of
the WCA.
There are 24-hour hotlines available to assist those in need in addition to everything the WCA offers.
Students interested in joining the fight to aid those who could use a helping hand, can participate in other upcoming events this month such as the Swap-A-Fair in which women will bring wearable clothing to “swap,” with one another. McNeal said it’s not only a helpful choice but also an economical one.
