SUMMIT AIMS TO PREVENT VIOLENCE Rape and Abuse Crisis Center Inaugural Event September 18

Over 200 community leaders attended the inaugural Rape and Abuse Crisis Center’s (RACC) “It’s Everyone’s Business Summit to Prevent Domestic and Sexual Violence” on September 18.

According to Kathy Smith, RACC Prevention Program Manager and Summit Co-Coordinator, intimate partner and sexual violence is widespread in the communities of Fargo, West Fargo, and Moorhead and is a major public health problem.

“Residents of these communities are affected by intimate partner and sexual violence across the lifespan in homes, workplaces and organizations,” said Smith. “These problems are preventable and are everyone’s business.”

The summit served as a think tank for local and state leaders from government, industry, academia, media, philanthropy, faith and non-profit issue experts to come together to identify and discuss effective domestic and sexual violence prevention practices and strategies.

Christopher Gabriel emceed the event and a heartwarming welcome message was delivered by Fargo Police Lieutenant Joel Vettel. Later, Bismarck-based musician Kris Kitko premiered her summit-inspired song, “It’s Everyone’s Business.”

Through a multi-media experience incorporating information sharing, artistic expression and discussion, participants learned about the magnitude of the problem and environmental factors which influence intimate partner and sexual violence in Clay and Cass counties.

There was also an evening portion of events for college student leaders to find ways to eradicate sexual violence in the local college setting.

“It is important to address beliefs, attitudes and messages that are deeply embedded in our social structures which help to create a climate that condones sexual violence and intimate partner violence,” said Greg Diehl, RACC Executive Director. “Participants have an opportunity to learn what they can do to promote healthy relationships and safe living conditions in our communities to become prevention champions.”

This event was made possible by the generous support of the Verizon Foundation, Dakota Medical Foundation, Fargo-Moorhead Area Foundation, and the United Way of Cass and Clay Counties. [AWM]

To learn more about volunteering or contributing to RACC, visit www.raccfm.com.