As the Executive Director of Development and Governmental Affairs at the City of Mishawaka, I had the honor today of presenting a proclamation on behalf of the City of Mishawaka on behalf of Mayor Dave Wood for Domestic Violence Awareness Month at the YWCA’s news conference. This is a cause deeply personal to me, shaped by a tragedy that forever altered my perspective on this critical issue.
In 1989, I was the Community Center Director for the Salvation Army in Mishawaka when I lost a dear friend, Lisa Bianco, to domestic violence. Lisa was brutally murdered by her ex-husband, who had recently been released on a mistaken 23-hour pass from prison. Lisa was unfortunately given no warning. I still vividly remember the last conversation we had the night before her death; she came to pick up her children, Amber and Brooke, from the community center where they had been participating in our after-school program. We chatted, as we always did, unaware that it would be our final exchange. The next morning, I woke to the devastating news that Lisa had been killed in front of her children.
This incident profoundly impacted my life, driving home the harsh reality of domestic violence. It is a tragedy that extends beyond the individual; it affects families, communities, and society as a whole. In the aftermath of Lisa’s murder, I had the privilege of working with Amber and Brooke, providing them with love, care, and a sense of continuity in a time of unimaginable loss.
While significant strides have been made in addressing domestic violence—thanks to the tireless efforts of advocates like Lisa’s mother, Millie—there is still much work to be done. Laws have changed, and the rights of victims have improved, but the prevalence of domestic violence remains alarmingly high.
Domestic Violence Awareness Month is a vital reminder that this issue cannot be relegated to a single month of discussion. We must maintain awareness and advocacy year-round. Each of us has the power to make a difference. Here are some specific actions we can take:
- Educate Yourself and Others: Understanding the dynamics of domestic violence is crucial. Attend workshops, read articles, and share information to help raise awareness in your community.
- Support Local Organizations: Get involved with local shelters, hotlines, and advocacy groups (YWCA). Volunteer your time or make a financial contribution to support their crucial work.
- Be a Listening Ear: If someone confides in you about their experiences, listen without judgment. Validate their feelings and encourage them to seek help if they are in a dangerous situation.
- Advocate for Change: Contact your local representatives to support legislation that protects victims and holds offenders accountable. Your voice matters in shaping policy.
- Create Safe Spaces: Whether at work or in your community, foster an environment where people feel safe discussing their experiences and seeking help.
- Model and Teach Healthy Relationships: Engage with youth in your community about the importance of respect, consent, and healthy relationships. Prevention starts with education.
It’s not easy to confront the realities of domestic violence, but our collective actions can foster a culture of support and awareness. Let us honor the memory of those like Lisa, her family and friends who have suffered and strive to create a safer, more compassionate world. Together, we can make a meaningful difference.
Authored by Matthew Lentsch
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