By Emma Stone
As October’s Domestic Violence Awareness month comes to an end, the Domestic Abuse Resistance Team held a candlelight vigil in remembrance of lives lost.
Last week, The Bridge Community Church was bright with candles lit across the audience.
Terri Autrey, DART founder and community advocate, opened up the ceremony.
“A lot of times, DART has events that are positive and easy,” said Autrey. “We can’t describe this event that way. It’s inspiring and impactful.”
Chris Hanchey, The Bridge teaching pastor, gave an opening prayer to welcome all attendees to the event.
Across the seven parishes, 42 women, four children and three men had been murdered by the hands of domestic violence.
Alpha Chi Omega Beta Psi called out the 49 stories, then began lighting candles.
“We know there are more than 49 stories,” said Autrey. “We know we missed a lot, but we hope there is no more.”
As each attendee passed the flame, they stayed that way in remembrance and observed a moment of silence.
“We are hoping this teaches others to look for red flags in domestic violence,” said Autrey. “We just want others to be able to give help to those when needed.”
The event ended with Grambling State University’s Police Chief, Rod Demery, sharing his domestic violence story.
To become involved in assisting the organization’s efforts, DART’s next event will be on Nov. 6 at 10 a.m. called “Cut it Out”, a seminar for beauty and salon professionals at the Gallery Salon at 1407 Farmerville Hwy in Ruston.
