BELMONT, Mass.— Domestic violence affects people across every ZIP code, income level and background. It can happen in any home, often hidden from those closest to the people experiencing it. Recognizing the signs and knowing how to offer support can make a difference.
Last year, a tragedy in the Greater Boston area struck the Armenian community and made that reality impossible to ignore, leading to a panel program on domestic violence. For the second consecutive year, neighbors, families, educators, coaches, and colleagues from across the region are invited to deepen their understanding of domestic violence and the role each person can play in recognizing abuse and supporting survivors.
“Building a Safe Community: Understanding and Preventing Domestic Violence” will be held on Thursday, October 8, at Belmont Public Library, 336 Concord Ave., in recognition of National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. A reception begins at 6:30 p.m., followed by a panel discussion from 7 to 8:30 p.m. A Zoom link will be available for those who prefer to join online. The event is free and open to the public.
The event is presented by the Women’s Support Center – Armenia and co-sponsored by the Armenian Relief Society’s Cambridge Shushi, Lowell Lusintak and Watertown Leola Sassouni chapters; and the Armenian International Women’s Association (AIWA) – New England.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s 2023/2024 National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey, more than one-third of women and more than one-sixth of men in the United States have experienced physical violence, contact sexual violence or stalking by an intimate partner in their lifetime. The event continues a conversation that began last year about recognizing the signs of domestic violence, supporting those affected, and finding the words to speak up.
The panel brings together a personal story, a prevention educator, and a school wellness director who also coaches high school football. Sophie Pariseau, founder and president of The Sima & Dylan Pariseau Memorial Foundation, Inc., will share a personal story about how domestic violence forever changed her family. Her perspective will add a deeply personal dimension to a discussion of awareness, prevention, and community support.
