CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. (CLARKSVILLENOW) – Candles flames flickered in the wind Thursday evening as several gathered to honor victims of domestic violence.
As Elder Velma Jo Williams sang, “Amazing Grace” the tone of the solemn yet uplifting event was felt among the crowd of survivors, domestic violence advocates, and law enforcement and government officials.
The Clarksville Area Urban Ministries and Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee held their second annual Candlelight Vigil for Domestic Violence Awareness at the Downtown Commons on Thursday, October 10,at 5:30 p.m. and featured speakers from the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office and Legal Aid Society.
CC Carmack-Wheeler, executive director of Clarksville Urban Ministries, who oversees the Safehouse, Safeplace, and Grace Assistance-all places that provide resources and assistance to those in domestic violence situations – spoke candidly about domestic abuse and the “worst-case scenario” of homicide. The deep pain felt by family, friends, law enforcement and those who tried to help the victim is unforgettable, she said and emphasized the responsibility everyone in the community has to help those facing domestic violence.
“It’s not just being aware. It’s taking action against it,” Carmack-Wheeler said. “…We are here for the loved ones who have (felt) the pain and loss. We are here to lift you up and comfort you and let you know your loved ones will never be forgotten.”
She read the names of more than a dozen domestic violence homicide victims killed in Montgomery County.
“Domestic violence is about power and control,” said, Tabitha Tackett, victim advocate for domestic violence survivors at the Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee. “When an abuser puts their hands on you, it’s to control you. When they choke or strangle you they are 300 times more likely to kill you, because they can’t control you. When they can’t control you through beatings or strangulations, the next step is to rape or sexually assault you. There is only one thing left after that they can do to control you.”
October is recognized as Domestic Abuse Awareness month began in 1981 by the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence as a Day of Unity to connect battered women’s advocates across the country.
Domestic violence affects millions of men and women and can be physical abuse or emotional abuse such as yelling, humiliation, stalking, manipulation, coercion, threats, and isolation.
If you or someone you know is living with domestic violence, help can be found by calling the Safehouse Crisis Line at 931-552-6900. The service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. All calls are confidential.