Last night I joined Tubman at a teen dating violence presentation at Saint Joseph's Home for Children. This was my first time at this location. During our visit I heard reactions from teens that were unlike others I had experienced. We played a game that allowed the teens to define the five most important traits to have in a healthy relationship. When we talked about the trait "not violent" not one of the teens thought that was important. Some teens even stated that sometimes that is the only way to shut their partner up. Hearing this just breaks my heart; how accepted violence is to our youth. My dream is a world without senseless violence and I will firmly advocate for this world. I will continue with all of my best efforts to change the views of people in our community. Abuse is a choice. No one's past defines their future. For this reason creating awareness is crucial now more than ever. We all can reflect on our own lives, our relationships, and the examples we provide youth about healthy relationships.
Until next time,
Samantha Phillippi
Until next time,
Samantha Phillippi