In commemoration of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the Albion Fellows Bacon Center recently hosted the annual “Flowers on the Lake” event. This significant gathering was co-hosted by the USI Sexual Assault & Gender Violence Prevention Group, uniting the community in a poignant ceremony designed to honor the lives lost due to domestic violence.
Inspired by the evocative poem, “I Got Flowers Today,” penned by Paulette Kelly, the “Flowers on the Lake” event serves as a platform for community members to come together in memory of those who have tragically lost their lives and to extend unwavering support to survivors and individuals enduring abusive relationships.
Gina Gist, the Director of Albion Fellows Bacon Center, emphasized the event’s vital role in raising awareness about the pervasive issue of domestic violence. She noted, “Probably the biggest benefit is just to educate people about this problem. Many people believe that domestic violence is hidden behind closed doors, but the alarming truth is that it affects one out of every four women and one out of every seven men. So, in reality, everyone knows someone who is a victim of domestic violence.”
As a somber yet powerful symbol of remembrance, a bell tolled for the 77 individuals who tragically lost their lives due to domestic violence in Indiana over the past year. This poignant act served as a stark reminder of the urgency to address and combat domestic violence in our communities.
“Flowers on the Lake” continues to be a touching and meaningful annual event, shining a light on the issue of domestic violence, honoring victims, and offering solace and support to survivors, all in the spirit of fostering a safer, more aware community.
