Words were scrolled across the stainless steel of a serving station gate as children learned boxing moves while others ran around with brightly colored faces.

This was the first of, soon to be, many events by The Bronx Veteran Chamber of Commerce and was hosted by Kathleen Canzoniero. Telling Our Stories: Domestic Violence Awareness provided resources for women and men as well as those in the Veteran, LGBT, and pet owning community. The event would not have been possible without our partners, Star of the Sea – Sea Cadet Corps, the Chaplain Workers Federation, and La Nena’s Boxing Therapy. Over 15 organizations were there to provide information such as the Violence Intervention Program, Inc., New York Harm Reduction Educators, Scudder Intervention Services Foundation, Inc. (SISFI), Milagros Day Worldwide, The Carrion Movement, Hunks4Hope, etc.

Speakers spoke to both children and adults about prevention and resources for domestic violence while explaining what a healthy relationship is. Brett A Scudder (Founder of SISFI), Mimoza Brahimaj (Domestic Violence Advocate and Speaker), Lila Green (Founder of Hunks4Hope), Tanya Carrion (Founder of The Carrion Movement), and Adaline Walker Santiago (Chairwoman of Bronx Community Board 7). There are no words to express their bravery on speaking about their stories and continuing to shine a light of awareness on domestic violence.

In a spark of creativity with a desire for inclusivity, the Testimonial Wall was created so that domestic violence survivors had an opportunity to share their stories without fear while remaining anonymous.

Thank you to everyone who volunteered their time for this event.