Domestic Violence Awareness Month
Dear Colleagues:
This October, we uplift Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM), first introduced back in the United States in 1981 by the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence.
It was created not only to bring more awareness to others but to connect and unify the millions of affected victims and survivors who seek to break the chains of violence. Purple is the color traditionally associated with Domestic Violence Awareness Month
Domestic violence, also known as intimate partner violence, is a pattern of abusive behavior used by one partner in an intimate relationship to gain power and control over the other.
Contrary to popular belief, domestic violence is not limited to physical violence, and the abuse can be emotional, psychological, financial, and sexual. Domestic violence can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, race, or socioeconomic status.
As the former Co-Executive Director of Saheli in Boston, an organization dedicated to non-judgmental & culturally sensitive domestic & sexual violence services that are vital to the well-being of South and Arab immigrant survivors and their children, I understand the lasting impacts this violence has on those most vulnerable in our communities. We know that women do not lead single issue lives, as our health is impacted by our financial stability, our environment, and of course, our overall safety and wellbeing.
Because the statistics are stark - every year, more than 10 million people become victims of domestic violence, which equates to about 20 people every minute.
Movements like #MeToo or #timesup allowed women from all over the world to share their stories of sexual harassment and sexual assault. But for every woman who came forward, there were countless others who were silenced by shame, guilt, fear of family and community and cultural taboos surrounding sex and sexuality. For many immigrant women, their experiences of sexual assault, rape, molestation, and violence often remains untold and unreported.
DVAM serves as a crucial platform to educate communities about the signs of domestic violence, its impact on victims, and the resources available for those in need. Awareness is the first step in breaking down the stigma and misconceptions surrounding domestic violence.
One of the key aspects of addressing domestic violence is empowering survivors, particularly women, to achieve financial and economic independence. When survivors can achieve economic independence, they are better equipped to leave abusive relationships and create a safe and stable environment for themselves and their families. I am now the Executive Director of Found in Translation, a nonprofit that helps low-income and homeless bilingual women become trained professional medical interpreters and creates a path towards their economic independence.
Domestic Violence Awareness Month serves as a powerful reminder that the fight against domestic violence requires collective effort. By raising awareness, supporting survivors, and advocating for change, we can contribute to the creation of a society where everyone can live free from the fear of domestic violence. That’s why I’m honored to work on behalf of the MCSW to address the very root causes of injustice, discrimination, and violence against women.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or the threat of domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline for help at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233), or go to www.thehotline.org for anonymous, confidential online chats, available in English and Spanish.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, these resources can help.
In solidarity,
Divya Chaturvedi
MSCW State Commissioner
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For almost two years now, the MCSW has been collaborating with people and organizations across the Commonwealth to gather research and data on issues impacting LGBTQ+ women on topics, including but not limited to parentage, economic justice and forms of violence.
Thank you for joining us at our virtual report briefing on Wednesday, October 4th, 2023, to hear more about our findings and recommendations!
In case you missed it, you can now watch the full recap video via YouTube, embedded below. We've also added the full report, a quick one-pager summary of our policy recommendations based off what we've learned, and the event slideshow to our website for easy downloading on the new MSCW website.
We invite you to share your feedback with us. We value your input and would be grateful if you would take our brief exit survey.
Thank you for joining us!
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Save the Date for our Next Event | |
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We want to hear from you! The Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women (MCSW) is hosting our first in-person public hearing of 2023 – this time in Dartmouth, MA.
We're seeking registrants to give testimony on issues facing women, children, and families in Bristol County. Public Hearings are an opportunity for women across the Commonwealth to give testimony on issues that matter most to them, which directly inform MCSW's policy priorities for the 2022-2023 legislative session. Make your voice heard on issues that matter most to you!
The event is free and open to the public and will be held at The University of Massachusetts Dartmouth. Hybrid options to join remotely will be available for those unable to join in person. Bristol county leaders, residents, legislators, and other community stakeholders are invited to attend either virtually or in person, and testimony is open to any member of the public.
ASL Interpreting, Closed Captioning, and other language accessibility needs will be available for this event. Register by November 10, 2023.
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The MCSW joined the Massachusetts Menstrual Equity (MME) Coalition at the Rally to End Period Poverty at the State House on Thursday, October 5th, 2023!
We rallied to support the I AM Bill to Increase Access to Menstrual Products (H.534/S.1381) and make sure it’s reported favorably out of the Public Health Committee.
If you haven’t already, download the testimony template to take action today. There are so many ways to get involved! Learn more here.
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MCSW Executive Director Shaitia Spruell and MCSW State Commissioner Tuitt were honored to run into former MCSW ED, Jill Ashton, at the recent 12th Annual Feminist Affair hosted by Mass NOW. Please visit the Mass NOW website to stay informed about their work to advance gender and racial justice in the Commonwealth. | |
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Massachusetts was well represented at the National Association of Commissions for Women (NACW) Annual Members Meeting held August 12, 2023. Two of our very own were elected to leadership positions!
Commissioner Tuitt was elected to serve another term as the NACW President. MCSW Executive Director Shaitia Spruell will serve a 2 year term as NACW Director-at-Large. Massachusetts is well represented on the national level!
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Massachusetts' Emerging Hispanic Leaders, Chosen by MassLive Readers
In recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month from Sept. 15 through Oct. 15, MassLive asked readers to identify people who are emerging Hispanic leaders throughout the state, working to make a difference in their own area of interest, be it politics, education, business or the arts. Our very own Executive Director Shaitia Spruell was featured in this impressive roundup! She embodies the #MCSW values of leading with compassion and advancing the rights of all women and girls across the Commonwealth. Congratulations, Shaitia! Well deserved!
Read the Full Story
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Christine Monska on Women's Empowerment: "Every Single Issue is a Women's Issue."
MCSW State Commissioner and Women’s Fund SouthCoast executive director Christine Monska has been fighting the inequalities women face daily since she was a teenager.
Read Her Full Story
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Regional Commission Updates
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Above Photos: Plymouth County CSW Commissioner Phyllis Ellis joined Executive Director Shaitia Spruell for the relaunch of the Brockton City Women's Commission on September 23rd. Both served as guest speakers, Spruell highlighting the work of MCSW and Ellis speaking on behalf of PCCSW. | |
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Above Photos:
Worcester County Commissioners Chantel Bethea, Marcia Chong Rosado, Michelle Quinones, Amanda Molina Dumas, and WCCSW Emerita Sue Lewandowski met with legislators and community partners at their September 18th Legislative Breakfast at the YWCA in Worcester where they presented and discussed their regional priorities. MCSW Commissioner Kim Shea joined MCSW Executive Director Shaitia Spruell for the event.
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The fall legislative season is underway for our regional commissions with several hosting events and conversations with their state legislators, local officials, and community partners with a focus on regional priorities. Some of our regional commissioners are serving as moderators and guest speakers for area organizations, while others are participating in panel discussions and listening sessions with constituents. Below is a snapshot of what our regional commissions are working on as they move into a busy period of programming and legislative advocacy.
The Berkshire County Commission will be hosting a legislative event in late October with their state delegation - and will be doing outreach for potential candidates to fill three vacancies. Berkshire Commissioner Shela Levante recently served as moderator for the Women's Fund of Western Massachusetts as they unveiled their 2023 report on gender equity in the western part of the state to community partners.
The Bristol County Commission had three successful listening sessions in the spring (Taunton, Fall River, New Bedford) - and recently reviewed the testimony they received, using it to determine which legislative priorities should be considered for their region. They will also be supporting the outreach efforts for MCSW's public hearing at U-Mass Dartmouth on November 14th.
The Cape Cod and Islands Commission welcomed a new commissioner, China Mapp - and will be hosting Barnstable County Sherriff Donna Buckley at their October 11th meeting for a conversation on her priorities and how they impact women in the region. CCICSW Legislative Chair Mary Waygan recently testified on behalf of the commission for An Act Relative to Medicaid Coverage for Doula Services (H.1240/S.782) as one of their legislative priorities.
The Eastern Regional Commission hosted a commissioner retreat on September 22nd - and will be electing new leadership at their October 10th meeting where they'll be discussing their regional priorities and updating their bylaws.
The Essex County Commission is focused on updating their database of community organizations and is soliciting coalition partners who support their legislative priorities. They're also planning a listening session later in the fall in Haverhill - and recently hired an intern who will work directly with their Ginsburg Initiative.
The Hampden County Commission elected new leadership at their September meeting - Chair Nicole Coakley, Vice Chair Jazmine Cotto, Secretary Sasha Viands - who will join the MCSW Regional Commissions Director in early October for an orientation to help prepare for a new programming season.
The Hampshire-Franklin Commission welcomed two new commissioners, Nicole Fonsh and Sarah Mulvehill - and will be electing new leadership in December. HFCSW Chair Marcia Plant Jackson recently testified on behalf of the commission for An Act Relative to Medicaid Coverage for Doula Services (H.1240/S.782) as one of their legislative priorities.
The MetroWest Commission met in late September to review and update their bylaws, discuss fall programming based on their legislative priorities, and to support the plans of their Athena Council as they enter a new year. They were also instrumental in securing a location for the MCSW Regional Convening on December 6th.
The Plymouth County Commission welcomed four new commissioners - Michelle Davidson, Jacqueline Jones, Donna Pursel, Janine Suchecki - who will join the MCSW Regional Commissions Director for an orientation in October. PCCSW Commissioner Phyllis Ellis represented the commission at the open house for the Brockton Women's Commission on September 23rd, noting their collaborative hearing on November 15th on the topic of workplace harassment. They will also be hosting a listening session on October 18th at the Plymouth Center for Active Living.
The Upper Middlesex Commission has formed an ad-hoc committee to review applications for current vacancies and will be scheduling interviews in October. They will also reconvene to discuss fall programming based on their legislative priorities - and will be working to support the efforts of their Athena Council which moves into their second year.
The Worcester County Commission hosted a successful legislative breakfast at the YWCA in Worcester on September 18th where they presented and discussed their legislative priorities - and engaged in productive dialogue with state legislators, local officials, and community partners.
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Photo: One of MCSW's newest Hampden County Regional Commissioners,
BeckyJean Thompson, gets sworn in by her city clerk in July.
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Updates from the Coalition Corner | |
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Massachusetts Girls in Trades was launched in 2015 by a partnership of educational, governmental, and union organizations with a shared goal of supporting and encouraging female career and technical education students and alumnae to pursue careers in the building trades.
This annual event provides an opportunity to the Massachusetts Building Trade Unions, Contractors, Developers, Government, and Community Organizations to network with high school women enrolled in Career and Technical Education programs who are interested in careers in the construction industry.
There are two upcoming events:
Eastern Conference & Career Fair
November 8, 2023
9:00 am-1:00 pm
IBEW Local 103, Dorchester
Western Conference & Career Fair
November 16, 2023
9:00 am-12:30 pm
Dean Tech Regional Vocational School, Holyoke
More information can be found here.
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Registration is now open for the 4th Annual Strong Black Women Redefined Conference, scheduled for Saturday, October 14, 2023 at the Boston-Dedham Hilton Hotel in Dedham, Massachusetts. Commissioner Tuitt is a featured speaker!
Strong Black Woman Redefined is a mental wellness conference hosted by Mindful + Melanated. Designed by a Black woman for Black women, this annual event brings together policymakers, providers, and persons with lived experience to dismantle the damaging cultural construct of the Strong Black Woman. This full-day conference will bridge the gap between suffering in silence and seeking support by providing mental wellness education and resources aimed at helping Black women heal.
For more information on attending, speaking, volunteering, and/or vending, email: hello@mindfulandmelanated.com.
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Research is being conducted by Hali Santiago, a Doctoral Candidate at the University of Nebraska, and my colleague in the training program at the UMass Center for Counseling and Psychological Health. Hali only needs five (5) more people. Participants receive a $25 gift card for the one-hour interview! If you are interested in participating, please email: hali.santiago@huskers.unl.edu. | |
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The Sex Ed Isn’t Spooky rally will be hosted on Wed, Oct 25th! The Healthy Youth Act Coalition invites you to join us in front of the MA State House from 2:30pm to 5:00pm to remind our legislators that we need the Healthy Youth Act because our young people deserve sexual health education that is medically accurate, consent based, and inclusive of LGBTQ+ identities and experiences.
Register today and let us know you’ll be there!
So come out and get loud with us - listen to some amazing speakers, pass out candy, and emphasize the fact that sex ed isn't spooky! Dress up in your best Halloween costume (but leave the full face masks and prop weapons at home) and you might even get entered into the costume contest.
The Healthy Youth Act Coalition will also be hosting a sign-making party on Sun, Oct 22nd 4:30pm to 7:00pm at Ula Cafe. This will be a great opportunity to learn more about the bill, get your art-ivism on, and build community with other sex ed advocates. You can register for this event by clicking "yes" in the checkbox at the bottom of the registration page.
Invite all your friends, family, and colleagues to join us because together, by showing up and making our voices heard, we can urge lawmakers to move the Healthy Youth Act forward THIS SESSION!
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Constituents and partners are welcome to join us at any of our monthly held committee meetings.
Legislative & Public Policy Committee:
First Tuesday of every month, 5:30-6:30pm
Regional Chairs Meeting:
First Tuesday of every month, 7:00-8:00pm
Program & Planning Committee:
Second Tuesday of every month, 5:30pm-6:30pm
Finance Committee:
First Thursday of every month, 3:00-4:00pm
Executive Committee:
Second Thursday of every month, 4:00-5:30pm
Full Commission Meeting:
Third Thursday of every month, 4:00pm- 5:30pm
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Dr. Sarah Glenn-Smith, Holliston
Chairwoman
Mary-dith Tuitt, Boston
Vice-Chairwoman
Legislative and Public Policy Committee Chair
Tanisha Arena, Springfield
Treasurer and Finance Committee Chair
Christine Monska, Auburndale
Secretary
Denella Clark, Hyde Park
Immediate Past Chairwoman
Rebecca Bact, Auburndale
Carol Campbell, Amherst
Divya Chaturvedi, Wilmington
Finance Committee Vice-Chair
Guimel DeCarvalho, Natick
Legislative and Public Policy Committee Vice-Chair
Marianne Fleckner, Westford
Jean Fox, Freetown
Liz Friedman, Northampton
Allison Goldberg, Marblehead
Audrey Hall, Framingham
Finance Committee Secretary
Nina Liang, Quincy
Leslie-Ann McGee, Kingston
Legislative and Public Policy Committee Secretary
Dr. Aisha Miller, Mattapan
Program and Planning Committee Chair
Sonia Shah, Natick
Dr. Kimberly Shea, Winchendon
Legislative and Public Policy Committee Secretary
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The Office of Economic Empowerment - Economic Empowerment for Women
The Office of Economic Empowerment provides several programs geared toward women of the Commonwealth, covering financial literacy, wage equality, and more.
Under Treasurer Deborah B. Goldberg, the Office of Economic Empowerment (OEE) focuses on creating and implementing programs and initiatives that give women the tools to succeed at home and in the workplace. They provide quality workshops and opportunities for women to learn strategies for financial success and free resources.
Mass 2-1-1: This online directory is an information resource for emergency food, rent, help to pay your heating and utility bills, mental health counseling, health programs, public health and safety services, child care referrals, job resources, and other help for individuals' parents, and families.
Massachusetts Girls in Trades was launched in 2015 by a partnership of educational, governmental and union organizations with a shared goal of supporting and encouraging female career and technical education students and alumnae to pursue careers in the building trades. Directory of Joint Apprenticeship Training Centers in Massachusetts.
Find LGBTQ Youth Resources: A comprehensive list of LGBTQ resources for youth throughout the state of Massachusetts, updated frequently, from our partners at Massachusetts Commission on LGBTQ Youth.
Local Women’s Commissions
There are currently 10 local Women’s Commissions that represent various cities and towns in the Commonwealth. While these Commissions are independent of MCSW, the Commission serves as a resource and partner for local commissions:
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