An upcoming candlelight vigil is intended to raise awareness of domestic violence and sexual assault, while in the process honoring lives lost and standing together with survivors.
"Beyond Silence: A Candlelight Vigil" will be held at 4:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 24, at Perkins Park (Pavilion One) in Newark. October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
The event is being organized by Lori Dowling and Rachel Nabutete Khaukaike, both of Newark. As they've connected with people in the Wayne County village, both feel this event is something meaningful to build together for the community.
"Abuse can affect people in every community, and we believe local conversations and connections can help people feel less isolated and more comfortable seeking support,"
Dowling said.
Who are the 'Beyond Silence' vigil organizers?
Dowling, who is a reinvention and embodiment coach for women, an author and a public speaker, helps women reconnect with themselves, rebuild confidence, and move forward after difficult life experiences.
"As a survivor of domestic violence and sexual assault, this event is deeply personal to me," Dowling said in an email. "I know how difficult it can be to recognize abuse, speak about it, and begin rebuilding your life. I want survivors to feel heard, supported, and reminded that their experiences matter — and that there is hope beyond what they have endured."
Co-organizer Rachel Nabutete Khauka, a lifelong Newark resident, is a women’s empowerment coach, mental health advocate, youth advocate, and mother.
"As a survivor herself, Rachel understands the power of having a voice and how sharing our stories can inspire healing in others," Dowling said. "She hopes to create a space where women can connect, shed another layer of healing, and find strength in one another. Her goal is to remind survivors that they are not alone and empower them to become a voice of hope for others."
Who are the 'Beyond Silence' vigil guest speakers?
Katherine Dillon of the Survivor Advocacy Center of the Finger Lakes will share a few words about the organization and the support it offers survivors.
Lindsay Betts is also joining as a featured speaker and performer. She will share a song written after her divorce that is meant as a connection and hope to other survivors.
Several other speakers are survivors, friends and relatives of survivors. They include: Tanya Dallas, Hailey Freeman, Tracy Loomis and Meghan Burgess, presenting as a mother–daughter duo, Sierra Kirkpatrick, Katie Arnold, and Christine “Strawberrie” Petrauskas.
James Schuler, from the Youth Advocate Programs Inc., will share information about the organization and resources available.
Space will also be made for speakers who choose to share their stories, while welcoming everyone who wants to listen and show support.
No one needs to share their own experience to attend, Dowling said.
"Our hope is that people leave knowing they are not alone, that support is available, and that their voice matters," Dowling said. "We also hope this evening encourages our community to listen with compassion and stand beside survivors."
For more information
To learn more about the event and to let organizers know who is coming, visit https://www.facebook.com/share/1FJiVGChC6/?mibextid=wwXIfr)or https://events.humanitix.com/beyond-silence-a-candle-light-vigil-for-domestic-violence-and-sexual-assault.
Mike Murphy covers Canandaigua and other communities in Ontario County and writes the Eat, Drink and Be Murphy food and drink column. He can be reached at mmurphy@messengerpostmedia.com. Follow him on X at @MPN_MikeMurphy.
This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: 'Beyond Silence' vigil offers hope to survivors
