Stopping domestic violence takes everyone’s efforts

HOULTON, Maine — An emotional and heart-felt tribute to victims of domestic violence was held Oct. 12 at the Riverside Gymnasium of the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians during the 14th annual “Catch the Dream to End Domestic Violence” candlelight vigil.
    “Every year we gather around the drum to remember those who have been victims of domestic violence,” said Jane Root, director of the Maliseet Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Advocacy Program. “We remember those who have been victims of domestic violence; those who have been murdered; and those who are survivors.”
As participants filtered into the gymnasium, Danya Boyce performed a smudging ceremony through the room. Guests were also able to put their names onto a “Dream Catcher,” pledging they will not sit idly by if they witness an act of domestic violence.
“We want to have a positive impact, so we asked people to pledge not to be a bystander and let domestic violence happen,” Root said. “A lot of people say they don’t want to get involved or it’s not their business, but it is. We are not telling people to get involved physically, but call someone for help.”
Along the back wall of the gymnasium were a number of shawls, which were created by survivors of domestic violence. In another corner of the room was a circle of chairs with white shawls wrapped around them and the names of victims of domestic violence deaths for 2011 printed on the back.
During the candle lighting portion of the ceremony, guests were able to light a candle for someone they know who suffers from domestic violence, or for themselves.
Spreading the word that domestic violence should not be tolerated has gotten easier, considering the amount of attention it receives, Root said. October is National Domestic Violence Awareness month and the first Monday in October is typically celebrated as a “Day of Unity.”
Root said many individuals many not even be aware they are victims of domestic assault, because they have not been physically assaulted. Domestic violence can also be verbal or mental anguish, Root said.
“While awareness has gotten better, it does not mean that the problem has gone away,” Root said. “Those who are victims are more apt to reach out for help, but those that perpetrate domestic violence are not getting better.”
A video presentation of “Something My Father Would Do,” was played for those in attendance.
Following the ceremony, participants ventured outside to launch purple, environmentally friendly balloons into the air. Printed on the balloons were the words “dream of a world without domestic violence.”
Victims of domestic violence or sexual assault can call the Maliseet hotline at 532-6401 for assistance.