Residents attend candlelight vigil for domestic violence awareness

Over 90 residents took part in the domestic violence candlelight vigil and resource event on Sunday, Oct. 14.

Resources were available from various local, county and state social services and non-profit groups about domestic violence.

Pinal County Supervisor David Snider began the speaker series, reading the names of domestic violence victims throughout the State of Arizona. Additional speakers included Mayor Kelly Anderson, Police Chief Patrick Melvin, District 15 Representative David Lujan, Pinal County Sheriff Chris Vasquez, Against Abuse Representative Cathy Bush and County Attorney Jim Walsh.

The final speaker for the event was a domestic violence survivor. Her story was one of strength and courage. It was about thirteen years of fear, how she did not see his fists coming when he beat her and how her decision to leave him was made when she saw him pick their infant son up over his head and throw him into the crib. It has now been 12 years since she left. “When you light your candles tonight,” she stated, “think of those [victims] that have not made it out or are trying to leave. You may be the one voice they hear, the one that manages to make it through to them.”

The evening ended with a candlelight vigil and a moment of silence. The Maricopa Fire Department Drum Corps played Amazing Grace while the candlelight flickered.

“These candles have been lit as a dedication to those who have suffered or are suffering, a commitment to assist those that need help and a celebration of those who have found their way to safety,” stated Supervisor Snider.

As attendees left the event, they walked by a table with 12 lit candles – each one symbolizing a victim of domestic violence in Pinal County.

Photo by Cheryl Muriett