Manhattan DA Cyrus Vance Speaks at Henry Street’s Domestic Violence Awareness Conference
By Henry Street Settlement
Police officers, domestic violence survivors, students, advocates and government representatives attended the annual Speak Out Against Domestic Violence conference hosted by Henry Street’s Urban Family Center on Thursday October 24 at the Abrons Art Center.
Addressing the audience, Manhattan District Attorney Cyrus Vance pledged to increase his efforts in preventing domestic violence and supporting survivors. “Domestic violence is going to remain a top priority in the District Attorney office,” he said.
David Garza, Henry Street Executive Director, welcomed the attendees and spoke of the agency’s commitment to serve those affected by domestic violence.
Other speakers included Hilary Nemchik, Director of External Affairs & Events for Manhattan Borough President Scott Stringer; Police Sergeant Pamela Bumpars; representatives from Henry Street’s Domestic Violence Program; and a domestic violence survivor who briefly shared her story and thanked Henry Street for helping her start her life over in a new apartment.
Topics included characteristics of a batterer, abuse of the elderly and effects of violence on children. Youth Program Associate Shavonne Long urged the audience to watch their kids for warning signs. “Listen to your children. They do express how they feel, just in a different way,” she said.
The event was organized and led by Frances Drayton, Director of Henry Street’s Domestic Violence Program.
