Women's Aid Service to hold open mic, candlelight vigil for survivors of domestic abuse
October is domestic violence awareness month, and to pay homage to those who have died at the hands of a loved one and to support those who have survived, the Women's Aid Service (WAS) of Isabella County is holding an open mic and candlelight vigil from 6-9 p.m. on Thursday Oct. 26 at The Dreamer Coffee Shop.
Rihan Issa, prevention educator and volunteer coordinator at WAS, says the open mic is meant to be a healing space, which may help provide a support system, with counselors available should a performance or statement trigger unwanted remembrance.
"Just because you are not in immediate crisis, the trauma of the event can be re-lived," Issa said.
Anyone is able to participate in the open mic, and performances may be any representation of one's experience with the topic.
Directly following the open mic performances, a candlelight vigil will be held to honor those affected by domestic violence, and a moment of silence will be observed to remember those who have lost their lives.
There will be a sign-up sheet available at event, and Issa may be contacted with further questions at (989) 317-4684 or through email at rissa@womensaidservice.org.
Candles will be provided.