Domestic Violence Survivors Forum heard victim’s testimonies, urged community to ‘just do something’
One in three women in the United States has experienced some form of physical violence by an intimate partner. Here in North Carolina, 35% of women experience domestic violence in their lifetime. To shed light on this issue and educate the community on domestic violence, Rally Up Winston-Salem, a local grassroots organization, held a Domestic Violence Survivors Forum.
During the event held at Hanes Hosiery Recreation Center, there was open dialogue that addressed the trauma, effects and presence of domestic violence in our community. There were also opportunities to hear testimonials from survivors and receive information on organizations and resources in the community. Dinner was also served.
To close out the event, moderator Michelle Boone called for the entire community to take a stand against domestic violence. “We have the power to change things if we just do something,” Boone said.
Corey McCann, co-founder of Rally Up Winston-Salem, took a moment to recognize the family of Kia Scheron Ramseur. Ramseur’s death was the result of domestic violence and was Winston-Salem’s first recorded homicide of 2024. Ramseur’s mother, sister, niece, and her nine-year-old daughter were in attendance during the forum.
“I’m pleading with the community …. we have to be a haven,” McCann said.
Victims of domestic violence don’t have to suffer alone. Many local, state and national agencies are now available to assist those who seek help. Below you will find contact information for some of these agencies:
*Community Intervention and Educational Services: 336-776-0322
*Department of Social Services (Child Protective Services): 336-703-2287
*Family Services Inc. (Sexual Assault Crisis Line): 336-722-4457
*National Child Abuse Hotline: 800-422-4453 or 800-4-A-CHILD
*National Sexual Assault Hotline: 800-656-4673
*North Carolina Coalition Against Sexual Assault – (NCCASA): 800-233-4357
For more information on Rally Up Winston-Salem, including upcoming events and programs, visit “Rally Up Winston-Salem” on Facebook.
