Crisis center “Crossroads” starts the month of fight against domestic violence

LIMA — Since the fall of 1983, the United States has recognized October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The entire month is dedicated to investigating abuse in relationships.

Crossroads Crisis Center is a local shelter that helps survivors of abusive relationships. Every year, the non-profit organization holds a vigil for those who have lost loved ones. The shelter brings awareness by creating displays and holding events throughout October. Crossroads kicked off its annual awareness month at the Lima Public Library on Monday night. Mayor Charetta Smith presented a proclamation officially marking October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month in the City of Lima.

Domestic Violence Awareness Month is highlighted in purple. In the early 1900s, the National Woman’s Party carried flags of purple, white, and gold, which symbolized purity, hope, and loyalty. Party members led a march against domestic violence. Purple has been a flag for women ever since.

One local family shared their experience of losing a loved one to domestic violence. Jessica Marling, the victim’s sister, and Cheryl Christlieb, the victim’s mother, spoke on her behalf, bringing along their surviving children.

“It helps them remember their mom,” Hristlieb said. “It’s not that we want them to remember mom that way, but it’s a way they can see others. It’s not just them. It creates a community for them.”

Crossroads put a wedding dress on display in a library to demonstrate a violent partnership. The front of the dress covered with words like “trust” and “commitment” represents the hope for marriage, while the back of the dress covered with words like “manipulation” represents what is sometimes hidden in an abusive relationship.

“The front and the back tell the story of what their relationship was like,” Marling said. “I couldn’t say anything negative about my brother-in-law until it happened.”

Crossroads Executive Director Christel Keller urged the community to raise awareness.

“We’d like to see more people get involved,” Keller said. “People can come to our events and learn about us by volunteering and donating. People can also join our Facebook. There is a lot of information and words that can help survivors.”

For more information, call Crossroads at 419-228-4357. If you or someone you know needs help, dial 211.

Contact Precious Grundy at 567-242-0351.