First Lady Hosts Domestic Violence Vigil
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Alabama First Lady Dianne Bentley is leading a candlelight vigil at the state Capitol to bring attention to victims of domestic violence.
Gov. Robert Bentley will also attend the vigil Wednesday night and presented a proclamation stating October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
“As I speak to you tonight thousands remain voiceless…I’m determined to use my voice for the one in three that are victims of abuse in Alabama,” said Mrs. Bentley.
It’s a cause First Lady Dianne Bentley is passionate about– bringing awareness to domestic violence throughout the state. It’s a cause LeNetta Banks knows all too well. She was a guest speaker, a graduate of the US Air Force Academy, and a domestic violence survivor. She said she not only wants people to be aware she wants them to do something.
“Domestic violence affects so many women, children, and men, and it is their business if we can stop it at the neighborhood level, the family level, then we can win over domestic violence. There are so many resources that need your time. Please volunteer in every way from your clothing all the way to childcare,” said Banks.
Several domestic violence support agencies also attended the vigil. Kelly’s Rainbow, a shelter in northeast Alabama, received a 5, 000 dollar grant from Mrs. Bentley.
“She’s doing some amazing things for us, and I think we are going to be better than ever. And that’s an awesome feeling because sometimes you worry day to day if you are going to be open tomorrow. Between grants and donations that come in, that’s how we survive,” said Yonnie Beam with the Kelly’s Rainbow.
