Black History Month teaches about the accomplishments and contributions of Black /African American individuals to America. Because these significant accomplishments and important contributions are not widely known by all, this month of February provides the opportunity for all of us to learn about many, if not all the ways in which African Americans have been change agents, inventors, activists, artists, musicians, soldiers, politicians who helped shape our country. We honor the resilience, strength, and achievements of African Americans who have made an indelible mark, sometimes with great sacrifice. By commemorating Black History Month, we affirm our commitment to building a more inclusive and equitable America and to promote education and awareness and increase knowledge about the richness and importance of African Americans significant contributions and impact in America
One of the most significant figures in the historical landscape of Black women as thought leaders and advocates for survivors of Domestic and Sexual Violence is Audre Lorde. A trailblazing poet, essayist, and feminist, Lorde dedicated her life to addressing the intersections of race, gender, and sexuality. Her seminal work, "The Uses of Anger: Women Responding to Racism," not only ignited conversations about the necessity of acknowledging and channeling anger but also laid the groundwork for Black women's role in activism. Beyond Lorde, numerous Black women have played instrumental roles in the movement to support survivors and drive societal and policy change. Figures like bell hooks (who prefers lower case spelling to focus attention to her messages and not herself), Kimberlé Crenshaw, and Tarana Burke have made indelible contributions, challenging societal norms, advocating for intersectional perspectives, and catalyzing movements like #MeToo. Their leadership continues to reshape the narrative surrounding Domestic and Sexual Violence, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and systemic change.
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And now we would like to highlight our Independence House Executive Director, Lysetta Hurge-Putnam who has made history on Cape Cod and in Massachusetts. She is the only Black woman to have successfully led a Domestic and Sexual Violence agency in the State for 25 years.
Lysetta's leadership not only exemplifies dedication and expertise but also symbolizes a significant milestone in leadership and accomplishment. Her impact extends beyond her professional achievements, inspiring others to pursue leadership roles and shattering stereotypes along the way.
As a leader for 25 years, Lysetta Hurge-Putnam has increased the diversity of staffing and programs, increased the amount of service options for survivors on Cape Cod, built and maintained collaborative partnerships to help ensure services and support are there for survivors. She has been a strong voice on bringing attention to Domestic and Sexual Violence and educating the community; she has been a mentor for colleagues and so much more. Her contributions embody the spirit of Black History Month. Lysetta’s legacy is undeniable, and she is certainly leaving her mark.
Lysetta is Past President and maintains a long-standing role on the Board of Directors of Jane Doe, Inc. (The Massachusetts Coalition Against Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence). She has been serving as an appointed commissioner to the Massachusetts Governor's Council on Sexual and Domestic Violence and Human Trafficking throughout multiple administrations. Lysetta is the 2023 recipient of the Cape and Island United Way Community Spirit Award given to individuals who tirelessly champion others in the community; is a past recipient of the Massachusetts Office for Victim Assistance (MOVA) Gerald D. Downing Leadership Award for her unwavering committment to advancing the rights of crime victims; has been honored with the Barnstable County Human Rights Commission Cornerstone Award; the Unsung Heroine Award by the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women; and the Eastern Bank Community Advocacy Award.
The Board of Directors and Staff invite you to join with us in celebrating Lysetta's 25-year leadership milestone and all the ways that she has helped to change the landscape of Domestic and Sexual Violence services in our community and beyond.
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