2022 - Domestic Violence Hurts Everyone: ECC hosting awareness rally on October 27

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and Elgin Community College’s Office of Student Life is partnering with the Community Crisis Center to bring Jamie Mosser, Kane County State’s Attorney, as the keynote speaker for a Domestic Violence Awareness Rally on Thursday, Oct. 27, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in the Seigle Auditorium, Building E, 1700 Spartan Drive, Elgin. Admission is free and open to the public. The event will end with a candlelight vigil.

Messer will speak on the intersectionality of domestic violence and gun violence. She has worked with survivors of domestic violence, advocating and seeking justice for them as a prosecutor since 2005.

Before the keynote address is the “In Her Shoes” interactive activity that involves true scenarios that portray what a domestic violence victim may experience and the barriers they face. “In Her Shoes” takes place from 5:30 to 7 p.m. in the Building E Lobby.

“Anyone can encounter domestic violence (DV) directly or indirectly in numerous ways; it’s not always or just physical abuse,” said Megan Highland, student life coordinator. “Partnering with the Community Crisis Center to bring education and awareness of this topic to campus is vital in helping people better understand what DV is and its full impact, how to help someone or get help yourself, and to know there is hope.”

Community members are also invited to view the Clothesline Project, a silent witness display that shares stories of victims. The Clothesline is made up of t-shirts created by survivors of violence or created in honor of someone who has experienced abuse. The exhibit will be on display on Tuesday, Oct. 18, and Wednesday, Oct. 19, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. in the International Lounge in Building F at ECC.

Counselors, social workers, and other professionals may receive 1.5 free continuing education units (CEU) for attending the Oct. 27 Rally presentation. ECC’s Domestic Violence Awareness Month activities are sponsored by ECC’s Office of Student Life and the Community Crisis Center of Elgin.

The ECC Library compiled a research guide about domestic violence, including resources available. To view the guide, visit library.elgin.edu/domesticviolence. Those needing assistance or support can call the Community Crisis Center’s 24/7 Crisis Hotline at 847-697-2380 or 847-697-9740 (Spanish).

For more information on the events, contact student life at 847-214-7370 or the Community Crisis Center at 847-697-2380.