Walk For Those Who Experience Domestic Violence

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Created on Wednesday, 20 October 2021 00:10

Written by Hailey Morgan

ST. JOHNSBURY - In an effort to show that domestic violence victims' voices are being heard, and in honor of Domestic Violence Awareness month, local non-profit Umbrella hosted its annual Walk For Justice last Thursday.

Umbrella is a small organization based in St. Johnsbury dedicated to helping domestic violence victims heal from past trauma. The organization also takes on a broad range of issues impacting women and families, including violence against women, early care and education for children, and gender equity. Umbrella's website reads "We seek to embody a world where those who have been dis-empowered by poverty, discrimination, and other obstacles are able to live peaceful, self-directed lives."

Community members, service workers, and survivors gathered in front of the Caledonia County Courthouse to attend the event. Over forty people arrived to show their support. This was the third year Umbrella put on the walk. The walk was set to start at 5:00 PM, and the organization decorated the entire yard with purple and green umbrellas.

Before participants could start walking, the non-profit had a young student write a song about domestic violence, as well as a guest speaker Pattie Knight who has been through past trauma, sharing her story through a poem. "Walk away from fights that will never be resolved. Walk away from trying to please people who will never see your worth. The more you walk away from things that poison your soul, the healthier you will be." Legal Advocate Teresa Gould read out loud on Knight's behalf, as this moment was very emotional for her.

Knight was married for fifteen years; the last four years the marriage wasn't healthy. Her husband became verbally abusive, then it started to become physical. "He knows all my triggers. He knows everything that bothers me, and he hit me with it all. I knew I was in trouble," Knight expressed. She said when she finally decided to leave, she had to leave everything behind, including her dogs and belongings. When it came time to grab all of her things, she even had to bring some friends along to ensure her safety. "I'll never be under the same roof with him again," Knight explained.

Knight bounced around from house to house and slept in her car before she found Umbrella. "They've been moral support. They found me places to stay. They promised me I'll never sleep in my car again." Knight says she just wants to live her life and focus on taking care of herself. She has realized that she was never the problem. "[Abusers] make you think that they're taking care of you, and you're really taking care of them. You know you can't change them; you can change yourself and take care of yourself."

The walk was about a mile and a half, taking participants around thirty minutes to complete. The organization took the time to put signs along the walk with domestic violence facts to inform people of how real this issue is. Umbrella will continue their work to help victims in need and are willing to help anyone who asks for it. If you or anyone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, please call Umbrella's legal advocate at (802)748-1992 extension 325 or visit their website for more information.