Breaching the darkness; Zonta members hold vigil for domestic violence victims
Published 10:12 am Thursday, December 11, 2014
Mary Jo Follmuth helps read off statistics of domestic violence during a candlelight vigil Wednesday evening at the Peace Plaza that capped off 16 days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence campaign. Photos by Eric Johnson/photodesk@austindailyherald.com
As men and women gathered around the world Wednesday to spread the word about gender-based violence, more than a dozen area residents did the same at the Peace Plaza in Austin.
“Zonta Club says no! [to domestic violence],” the people shouted.
The Zonta Club of Austin ended its 16 Days of Awareness against Gender-Based Violence with a candlelight vigil, complete with statistics, a prayer and a wish to spread the word about the devastating effects domestic violence can have.
The Zonta Club capped its 16 days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence campaign with a candlelight vigil.
Members read off statistics like clockwork: 1 in 4 women will be victims of domestic violence in their lifetime. Domestic violence can happen anywhere, but 60 percent of it happens at home. Domestic violence is more likely to occur at night and in the early morning.
“We’re hoping to spread the message to people,” Zonta Club President Mary Jo Follmuth said.
Follmuth hoped people would come together with organizations like area police, schools and other places to help identify and support victims of domestic violence.
Mayor Tom Stiehm, who also attended the rally, said the Zonta Club’s mission was important for the area.
“It’s a very tough cycle to break,” he said. “It’s almost impossible to break.”
