| Thursday and Friday were two eye opening days that I will never forget. Months ago, my mom told me about a conference that her job was having geared towards discussing, engaging, educating and learning about domestic violence and sexual assault. A survivor of physical and emotional domestic abuse, my mother was so excited about the conference and the way she talked about her job and all that they did lured me in. How many times have you had a chance to see a family member let alone a parent in their element? Most of us don't go to our parents job unless you're in elementary school and it's "bring your kids to school day". So, getting the opportunity to be enlightened and to see my mom work was a blessing. The conference showcased such a diverse group of professionals and advocates and left me awe inspired. Learning about the various initiatives that are in place |
The conference gave me a new found appreciation for the NFL, NBA, NHL and VIACOM. I am now aware of companies and advocates like the Jamie Kimble Foundation for Courage, No More, HELLYEAH, Joyful Heart Foundation, National Network to End Domestic Violence, Asian and Pacific Islander Institution of Domestic Violence, Minnesota Indian Women's Sexual Assault Coalition and SOOOOOO many more. Walking through the hallway that lead to the ballroom and break out rooms I was greeted by portraits of victorious survivors of domestic violence including my mother courtesy of Pearls for Creative Healing. The whole experience has changed me forever!!! Listening to Kalimah Johnson endeared me to her life story. Hearing Troy Vincent recount his youth gave me a sense of security in terms of how the NFL will proceed in handling domestic abuse. Juan Ramos brought tears to my eyes and reminded me that good men are alive and well. Maile Zambuto showed me what can happen with strong will and perseverance. Lina Juarbe Botella was a walking, body of courage and educated me on the subtleness of
words and power. Tony Porter and Ted Bunch the amazing founders not only hired my mom, but the work they've done and the vision they've shared has gone far in impacting me forever.
The A Call To Men conference was one that has me thinking about how I can help. How I can change. What I can do NOW to stop the influx of negative words and images in my life. I know that I can make a difference and that I can be better because I was shown it and you can't unlearn what you've been taught. Onward and Upward.