HOULTON, Maine – A small, but spirited group turned out Saturday, Oct. 18 for a one-mile walk/run to raise awareness for domestic violence.
“Our goal is to raise awareness about domestic violence and by knowing more, you can foster a healthy mind, spirit and body,” said Cathy St. John, director for the Maliseet Advocacy Center.
About a dozen walkers participated this year, logging four laps around the Maliseet Football Field. Sponsored by the Maliseet Advocacy Center and the Maliseet Community Health Education department, the walk was the final event to celebrate October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Previous events included a purple tree lighting ceremony; a candlelight vigil and meal; and a mosaic making activity.
“Native men, women and youth face some of the highest rates of domestic violence in the country,” added Tawoma Martinez, community educator/advocate. “They also have the least amount of resources available for safety and healing. One of our best healers is our Earth Mother, breathing in fresh air, moving, dancing and walking in a good way. Violence is not our way, so let’s move together to help our community heal.”
The Maliseet Advocacy Center used to hold a 5K run, but had not sponsored a walk or run for several years. This year, the group partnered with the Maliseet Community Health Education department and Maya Gardiner, the tribe’s certified physical fitness instructor, to bring a healthier approach to close out the month-long celebration.
Just as the walk began, a bald eagle – a spiritual animal for the Maliseet tribe – soared over the field, helping encourage those in attendance to bring a positive energy to the day.
