Survivors’ stories to be honored at Tri-County Safe Harbor ‘Remember Me’ event

News

By Amy Reddinger
Published October 6, 2023

Survivors of domestic and sexual violence will share their stories at 6 p.m. Oct. 25 at Bay College’s Besse Center. The free “Remember Me: End the Silence, Stop the Violence” event will end with a candlelight vigil honoring those who have lost their lives and those fighting to be free from domestic and sexual violence.

LeeAnn Wilmoth, who was kidnapped and sexually assaulted by a coworker in 2017 in the U.P., will share her survival story, discussing how she transformed from victim to survivor, gaining strength in part through her faith and prayer.

Wilmoth wants to increase community awareness and encourage other survivors. “Together, we can make the difference happen,” she said. “Don’t give up.”

Two additional survivors, one of domestic violence and one of sexual assault, also will share their stories.

Tri-County Safe Harbor (TCSH), in partnership with Bay College, welcomes all who want to celebrate those who have survived sexual and domestic violence while remembering those who have been lost, said Melissa O’Neill, TCSH Program Manager/Crime Victim Advocate.

Intimate-partner domestic violence “can happen to anyone,” said TCSH Executive Director Erin Viau, and normally extends beyond physical violence to include other forms of abuse. TCSH provides safe shelter, free crisis support services, advocacy, and more.

Anyone who knows someone suffering from domestic violence should reach out for help and encourage the victim to get help, said Viau. This saves lives, she said. “There is help, there is a way out, and we can help,” Viau said.

While there often are many daunting obstacles to leaving an abusive relationship and healing from violence, TCSH advocates can help survivors find their way through the steps that are right for their situation, said O’Neill.

TCSH helps survivors of intimate-partner domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking in Delta, Schoolcraft, and Menominee counties. Those who need help can call TCSH at (906) 789-1166 24/7.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, uniting advocates, survivors, and allies nationwide each October in the shared goal of ending domestic violence.

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