Domestic violence vigil held

    HOULTON, Maine — Domestic violence is an issue that affects people from all walks of life. It knows no social or economic boundaries and is a problem that impacts the lives of millions.
October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month and the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians held their 15th annual “Catch the Dream to End Domestic Violence” candlelight vigil Oct. 3 to raise awareness for the cause.
    “Today is a special occasion for us to reflect on the ones who have been hurt,” said Imelda Perley, spiritual leader for the HBMI. “We come into this circle of love for the ones who have been hurt. Hopefully we can stand up for those who cannot stand up for themselves.”
Chairs inside the Maliseet Gymnasium were set in a circle and along the back wall were a number of shawls, which were created by survivors of domestic violence. In another corner of the room was a circle of chairs with white shawls wrapped around them and the names of victims of domestic violence deaths for 2012 printed on the back.
“Our Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Advocacy program began services 14 years ago and during those years our understanding of domestic violence has greatly increased,” said Tribal Chief Brenda Commander. “Tribal council has zero tolerance for domestic violence. There are still those who are abused, both young and old, that need our help. We must provide support for the survivors as they rebuild their lives.”
Commander added the tribe was fortunate to have a center for domestic violence resources on site to provide information and intervention to those in need.
During the candle-lighting portion of the ceremony, guests were able to light a candle for someone they know who suffers from domestic violence, or for themselves.
Spreading the word that domestic violence should not be tolerated has gotten easier, considering the amount of attention it receives, said Jane Root, director of the tribe’s Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Advocacy Center. However, many individuals may not even be aware they are victims of domestic assault, because they have not been physically assaulted. Domestic violence can also be verbal or mental anguish.
“We all need to do something because it is not getting better,” Root said.
Root also used the opportunity to bid farewell to one of her staff members, Katie Bell, transitional housing assistance coordinator, who was leaving the area to relocate to Vancouver, B.C.
The Maliseets program offers unconditional/confidential support; crisis intervention; safety planning; emergency shelter and related assistance; support group; hospital accompaniment; court advocacy; assistance in filing for orders of protection from abuse; assistance in filing for divorce and parental rights/custody; legal assistance; information and referrals; and education and training.
Victims of domestic violence or sexual assault can call the Maliseet hotline at 532-6401 for assistance.