Domestic Violence Crisis Center will go online this year to host its “Voices of Courage Virtual Spring Luncheon” from 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Thursday, May 21.
The event’s keynote speaker is Rachel Louise Snyder, award-winning journalist and author of “No Visible Bruises: What We Don’t Know About Domestic Violence Can Kill Us.”
“The timing of her presentation is really poignant during the COVID-19 crisis, where we have seen so many reports of domestic violence victims being especially vulnerable because of stay-at-home orders,” said Suzanne Adam, DVCC’s executive director.
Rachel Louise Snyder, author of No Visible Bruises: What We Don’t Know About Domestic Violence Can Kill Us, will speak at the May 21 online DVCC event.
— an announcement from the Domestic Violence Crisis Center
Snyder’s acclaimed book was named one of the New York Times “Top 10 Books of the Year,” National Book Critics Circle Award Finalist, and most recently a Los Angeles Times Book Prize finalist.
“While we struggle with the COVID-19 pandemic, we need to recognize that there is a shadow pandemic of domestic violence happening behind closed doors,” Snyder said. “The UN estimates an additional 31 million victims of domestic violence globally during the next six months because of COVID-19; this number is alarming, certainly.
“But it is also a call to action. We cannot hope to solve it, to address the needs of scores of victims and their children, if we don’t start locally,” she said. “The issue is always important. Now, it is urgent, because #stayathome does not always mean #safeathome.”
- You can buy tickets here for the online event or by calling (203) 517-5140.
The virtual event will include an online welcome and award presentation.
Ellen Lubell, an attorney, volunteer, and philanthropist, who has worked on behalf of domestic violence victims for more than thirty years will receive the Voices of Courage Award.
Peggy Brown, who has shown unwavering support and commitment to helping victims of domestic violence in Fairfield County, will receive the Kathy Kincaid Award for “giving above and beyond.”
“Rachel Louise Snyder’s work is bringing a new level of understanding and awareness about domestic violence issues in America today. We are so proud to have her as our speaker,” said Adam, DVCC’s executive director.
“We are asking people to come together to connect with friends online, order lunch to support a favorite local restaurant, be a part of the important conversation with Rachel Louise Snyder, and support DVCC.”
- If you or someone you know needs help, please call DVCC’s 24-hour hotline at 888-774-2900.
Sponsors of the event include:
Jim & Dede Bartlett Foundation, Ellen Lubell, Marge Nickel, Janill & Sahul Sharma, Lynn & John Watkins, Terese Ceruzzi, Norwalk Hospital, Pat & Bob Phillips, Judith Udell, Wendy Herrick & David Owens, Kim & Bill Holmes, Stamford Health [Stamford Hospital], UBS, Peggy & Jim Brown, Robin & Dick Woods, Benefit Shop Foundation Auction Gallery, Camsan Inc., Marcia Hamelin & Dennis Tracey, the National Football League, Torana Inc., and Zumbach’s Coffee.
About the DVCC
Now in its 40th year, DVCC is here to support individuals on their journey to safety.
DVCC advocates for individuals who are experiencing abuse in personal relationships. Our multiple services and professional staff help those experiencing any level of domestic violence and assist them in building a safer environment for the well-being of themselves and their families.
All victim services are free and confidential, and all services offered are multicultural/multilingual. DVCC’s mission is to provide effective services, support and education for the prevention and elimination of domestic violence across the Connecticut communities of Stamford, Norwalk, Darien, New Canaan, Weston, Westport, Wilton and beyond.