Domestic violence victims, families march in NA
Several victims of domestic violence along with their relatives, friends and supporters marched through the streets of New Amsterdam on Saturday afternoon to raise awareness about the social ill that has been affecting women countrywide for decades.
The march which began at Tacama Turn, Stanleytown and ended at Shoe Lane, New Amsterdam was organised by Latoya Williamson, delegate number 12 in the much anticipated Berbice ‘I’m a Big Deal’ pageant. Williamson is also the sister of Shondell Williamson, who was doused with acid by her ex-husband on January 20, 2017.
The young delegate after the march stated that “Today we are walking with a purpose. As I was walking I was remembering my sister and how because of violence against woman she is going through so much.” Williamson noted, that while her sister remains jovial and energetic her journey as a “survivor” is challenging.
She said, “We have to ask ourselves, ‘how many more?’, and be willing to make a change.” Williamson also encouraged victims to speak out. She then explained to the gathering that separating from a violent partner will not “change them” and that the violent partner should be held responsible for their actions however trivial they may seem.
She furthermore thanked the men who were apart of the crowd for taking a stand against violence against women. She noted that more people, men specifically, need to speak out against violence. Whether you are a neighbour, friend or relative of a victim, speaking out, she stressed, can save a life.
Meanwhile, Anthony Blair, son of the late proprietors of the ‘Stretch D Dollar’ franchise also attended the walk with other relatives. Blair said, “I think that domestic violence should not exist in the entire world. Men