As Domestic Violence Awareness Month comes to an end, the Kalamazoo YWCA will host its annual walk and vigil Monday evening, October 29, to honor survivors and those who have lost their lives.
“We will start at the 'Y,' and we will march to Bronson Park. And once we get to Bronson Park, we will have our keynote address, which is going to be done by Erin Roberts from the Michigan Coalition to End Domestic and Sexual Violence,” says Sherry Brockway, director of YWCA Emergency Response Services. “She’s going to talk about some things we can do at the state and local level.”
In 2017, seven people lost their lives because of domestic violence in Kalamazoo County, Brockway says. Though community marches and events come and go, Brockway says that this year's vigil will be powerful because it is an opportunity to honor those who have died.
“It’s one of the only events where we get the chance to recognize each individual who lost their life in Kalamazoo. And to be able to show the families the support, and that people care, I think that’s what keeps people coming every year. And it’s so empowering,” Brockway says.
Monday’s event will also feature a survivor speak out and a vigil to remember those in Kalamazoo County who have lost their lives to domestic violence. In past years, Brockway says the walk and vigil has drawn about 50 participants.
The walk begins at the Kalamazoo YWCA, 353 East Michigan Avenue, at 5:30 p.m.
