Domestic Violence and Diverse Populations Event

The Arlington Commission on the Status of Women and the Younger Women’s Task Force hosted an event, “Domestic Violence and Diverse Populations” that I attended. This event was held at Central Library of Arlington. Despite being held on a rainy day, it was very well attended.

At the registration table, I met Samantha Sewell. She is the Vice Chair of the Arlington Commission on the Status of Women (CSW). The CSW was first established in 1974 as an advisory committee to the County Board. In 1980, the Board redesigned the committee as a permanent commission to advise the County on a variety of issues affecting women. The Commission serves as a community resource and advocate for women seeking to continuously advance and inform women in Arlington County on legal and human rights, economic equality, equal employment, and state legislation. The Commission has addressed a number of needs and concerns in the community. The Commission works to maintain an active voice in state legislation by participating in Board sessions and public meetings, continuously expressing opinions and submitting suggestions to the County Board on legislative bills.

The Younger Women’s Task Force (YWTF), a project of the National Council of Women’s Organizations, is a nationwide, diverse and inclusive grassroots movement dedicated to organizing younger women and their allies to take action on issues that matter most to them.

Run by and for younger women, YWTF works both within and beyond the women’s movement, engaging all who are invested in advancing the rights of younger women. Ana Kay Yaghoubian is the DC Chapter Director.

The panel discussion consisted of various experts in the field of domestic violence. In addition, Shena Williams was the keynote speaker. Ms. Williams is the Triabal Progam Specialist of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. I was impressed to read the credential of the panelist. Their professional titles ranged from Outreach Director to a Staff Attorney.

Most of the events I have blogged about have been more whimsical in theme; however, this topic and event are quite important. According to the panelist, domestic violence spans all culture, economic, and societal lines. One major theme in the discussion was the need for empathy from the from the mental health provider. Another overarching theme was the need for increased research, which will help establish the most effective therapy for multicultural clients.

This engaging event gave the audience members much to think about.

All of us have been impacted by domestic violence some form or fashion whether it is a family member, friend, co-worker, colleague, or acquaintance. The only way to decrease this act is to speak up and take action. To learn more about getting involved you can contact these two amazing organizations.