The night of October 28th the North Brooklyn Coalition Against Family Violence held their yearly march and vigil. However skies showed their sympathy a little too much, “It really poured that night,” commented Erika Arias-Moreno, Executive Director of NBCAFV. Still more than 80 people attended including representation from the NYPD, CBO’s, churches, the Brooklyn D.A., Brooklyn Borough President’s office, in addition to Assembly Woman Davila and Council Member Reynoso.
St. Nicks Alliance takes this annual vigil to heart in memory of Nancy des Grottess and Emma Feliciano, two staff members who lost their lives to abusive partners. Their stories are groundwork inspirations behind the creation of this march.
“[They all] came together in solidarity to show our community that family violence will not be tolerated; that together as a community we can end family violence. When one member of our community is experiencing family violence, we ALL experience it. Family violence impacts all of us,” stated Arias-Moreno.
Due to the rain, the vigil took a sheltered stand at the First Spanish Presbyterian Church on 161 South 3rd Street. There was a candlelight ceremony featuring survivor speakers, community representatives and families impacted by family violence.
Prior to the vigil Council Member Antonio Reynoso organized an art auction with pieces from students and teachers from PS 196, PS 257, and PS 147 as well as local artists. All proceeds raised went to the North Brooklyn Coalition Against Family Violence. However If you missed this another auction will be scheduled in the near future.
If you wish to support North Brooklyn Coalition Against Family Violence they are currently accepting donations for coats (children and adults), winter accessories (hats, socks, boots, scarves, gloves, mittens) as well as feminine hygiene products and diapers/training pants. Please call their office to make arrangements for dropping off donations: 718-302-4073
The Greenline 