As we get closer to Halloween, there are many events catering to the frightful holiday.
One local organization is holding their inaugural family-friendly Halloween event centered around preventing domestic violence.
Jess Gillotte-King, Community Educator at the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians Advocacy Resouce Center, is excited about this event.
"The event is centered around “Scaring away domestic violence.” It’s called a Night of Wicked Awareness. We will have food and drinks, lots of games, dancing, mask-making, and a costume contest with monetary prizes. Everyone is welcome. This is a public event. We have done a walk for domestic violence for many years, however, we just wanted to try something different this year." Gillotte-King said.
The event is Saturday, Oct. 19 from 5-8 p.m. at the Big Bear Arena.
Gillotte-King says domestic violence affects people of all socioeconomic status and education levels and there must be more awareness about it.
"Domestic violence, or intimate partner violence, is a pattern of behavior in any relationship used to gain or maintain power and control over an intimate partner. Abuse can be physical, sexual, emotional, economic, or psychological actions or threats of actions that influence another person. This includes any behaviors that frighten, intimidate, terrorize, manipulate, hurt, humiliate, blame, injure, or wound someone. Domestic violence can happen to anyone of any race, age, sexual orientation, religion, or gender. Domestic violence occurs within a range of relationships, including gay or straight couples and couples who are married, living together, or dating. You are not alone. Abuse is never your fault," she explained.
The Advocacy Resource Center (ARC) has been detrimental in serving survivors since 1989. ARC is available for support and advocacy for crisis intervention and emotional support. The ARC can assist with safety planning and follow-up. The Lodge of Bravery is open 24/7 and can provide immediate safety to survivors and their children and pets seeking protection from intimate partner violence. You do not have to be a tribal member to seek ARC services.
Contact the Advocacy Resource Center at (906) 632-1808 for more information.
