Central Falls Domestic Violence Task Force reaches out to the community

CENTRAL FALLS, RI (June 14, 2024) – One of the most common felonies in the state, domestic violence in Rhode Island accounts for approximately 20% of all arrests in the past three years, a problem compounded by the isolation brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. With statistics showing that about 26% of children will witness or experience domestic violence before they turn 18, the need for awareness is paramount for the safety of families. 

In 2023, Central Falls Mayor Maria Rivera constituted the city’s Domestic Violence Task Force in an effort to reduce rates of domestic violence citywide. The goal of the Task force is to address the city's high rate of domestic violence cases, as well as prioritize education and awareness by conducting multilingual educational and prevention campaigns. This year, in furtherance of this goal, the Task Force is focusing on breaking the stigma and silence around domestic violence, especially among immigrant communities, and addressing its common misinformation and misconceptions through faith-based community outreach.

On June 14, the Task Force held an outreach event at New Life Church to discuss and debunk myths surrounding domestic violence and spread awareness about life-saving resources available to victims. Led by Chair of the Task Force, Nana Amma Ankrah, Esq., the outreach program covered topics including conduct constituting domestic violence in Rhode Island and victim resources, including a 24-hour helpline, emergency shelters and transitional housing, law enforcement and court advocacy, as well as support groups. 

Speakers Lisbeth Candelaria and Vanessa Rodriguez from Blackstone Valley Advocacy Center led an interactive discussion on misconceptions and myths surrounding the topic. Rodriguez and Candelaria explained that domestic violence isn't only be physical, but could be verbal, psychological, sexual, and even financial abuse. “Domestic violence does not discriminate,” Rodriguez said in her presentation, “anyone can be a victim – men, women, children, the elderly, the rich, and the poor.”  

The outreach event also featured a Q&A segment where the congregation was given the opportunity to comment, share their experiences, and ask questions. Several members of the congregation opened up about their own stories and experiences of their family and loved ones. Some recounted childhood incidents, while others bravely shared current challenges with separating from an abusive partner. The outreach event was a safe space for all to discuss this critically important issue, and the speakers encouraged discourse and support for one another. “When someone tells you their story, please believe them,” Ankrah said.

Following the intimate conversation, members of the Task Force shared remarks. The congregation heard from Police Chief, Colonel Anthony Roberson, who spoke about the importance of incident reporting and victim cooperation with law enforcement. “The Central Falls Police Department remains committed to assisting all residents in combating domestic violence. Domestic abuse is not a flaw in the victim, it’s a malicious act by the perpetrator. Let’s not normalize abuse. The Police Department is here to support you as your safety is of the utmost importance.”

Lisbeth Candelaria, Law Enforcement Advocate for the Central Falls / Pawtucket area, mentioned some victim support services offered through Blackstone Valley Advocacy Center, including support groups, residential housing, life skills workshops, court advocacy, and several others.  Lisy De La Roca and her team at Progreso Latino spoke about similar support services for victims, with a focus on case management and multilingual resources.  

Head Pastor of New Life Church, Pastor Stephen Harper, closed the event with the admonishment, “if you see something, say something.”

This event was the first stop for the Task Force in its mission to spread awareness at several faith-based organizations in and around Central Falls. Mayor Maria Rivera is passionate about ending domestic violence in the city and calls on all residents to engage in this important effort.