October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM)! I am passionate about Domestic Violence Awareness and Prevention because it profoundly impacted my childhood. Abusive behaviors and attitudes were present in my childhood home that kept my birth mother's hands tied from being able to leave her abusive marriage safely. I was abused and neglected by both parents, as well. It was a dysfunctional and violent environment that I directly experienced until high school. Foster care saved my life - physically, mentally, and spiritually.
I had to learn/relearn many standards that helped to rebuild my self-esteem and self-respect. Counseling, therapy, and ministry were integral, as well as the support of family and friends. Many years later, into adulthood, I decided to share my story. But I did not want only to provide an emotional appeal. Instead, I desired to inform from a position of sound industry advice and guidance. I earned a Graduate Certificate in Domestic Violence Prevention from the University of Massachusetts - Lowell.
Today, as an author and speaker, I outline five critical points that encourage conversations about intimate partner violence:
Safety
Stability
Security
Support
Social Stigma
With IRIS Diary, 2nd ed., I speak to tween/teen audiences about the dynamics of Teen Dating Violence (TDV). I also offer a coordinating virtual mentorship program and interactive workshops. IRIS Devotional, 2nd ed. reaches more mature audiences, college age and up with motivational and informative speeches about Intimate Partner Violence (IPV). I seek to speak to groups in faith, education, or community-based organizations.
Please reach out if you seek a speaker for October, Domestic Violence Awareness Month! I have openings for in-person and virtual events, and I look forward to partnering with you to reach the members of your community with a message of Incredible Resilience and Inner Strength (IRIS)!
Learn about how Ivey Media Agency promotes social solutions through storytelling during Domestic Violence Awareness Month by visiting iveymediaagency.com/dvam.