It is hard to believe that domestic violence exists and sometimes nothing is done about it until it is too late. There are not only women, but men and families that are affected by domestic violence and may not even have someone to talk to or share their feelings with.
Milagros Day Worldwide is a non-profit organization that is dedicated to turning abuse into success. Its mission is to provide personal growth and development to survivors that grew up in abusive households. Every mother’s day, the Milagros Day organization walks across the Brooklyn Bridge to bring awareness about domestic violence from behind close doors, leave your pasts behind you and feel free.
The event began with having everyone stand in a circle and listen to the introductions given by Dawn Diaz, Founder/CEO of Milagros Day Worldwide. As Diaz talked, she explained that the world “milagros” means miracle and that we should love and honor our mother. When asked what word that someone would want to take away from her speech if nothing else and she replied, “GRATITUDE! One of our Milagros Day Worldwide declarations is “I am Thankful for ALL my Experiences, they are Part of a Plan! What that phrase represents is that no matter what you have been through in life, it is important to see the lessons, growth and blessings that often come out of the most difficult situations if you maintain your faith!”.
After the introductions and speeches, the group proceeded to walk together across the Brooklyn Bridge and leave the past behind us and look towards a brighter future.
Once in Brooklyn, there was various entertainment to symbolize the stories about the those who have been a victim of domestic violence. These included interpretive dancing, bands, songs, poems and more. This was the time for the participants to feel free and be able to hear stories that were related to them or knew of other people that were affected by domestic violence.
The take away from the event was that domestic violence is real, but educating the children and everyone around us that something can be done about it like holding events to bring awareness to the cause. More information about the organization can be found at www.milagrosday.org.
