October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Four local survivors of domestic and sexual abuse take the stage at the Wheeler Thursday to share their stories.
Shannon Meyer is the executive director of RESPONSE, which advocates for survivors of gender-based violence and hosts the annual event. She says the participants find it empowering to take the stage, and the stories can raise awareness of just how common abuse really is.
"This happens in our community. These people look just like my neighbors, my collegues, my child. It could be happening to anyone," Meyer said.
Four women will share stories, music and poetry about their experiences.
For the first time, the annual event closes out with a panel discussion between a police officer, a trauma therapist, RESPONSE staff members and the performers themselves.
“Our Response” begins at 6 p.m.
