About sixty people including ten police officers stood in front of the Cumberland County courthouse Friday September 23,2016 in remembrance of loved ones who were victims to domestic violence from October 24, 2015 - September 16, 2016.The annual “Remember My name” is a candlelight vigil that takes place every year to remember victims in North Carolina that died as a result of domestic violence. With lit candles held in the air and tears dropping down the faces of family members and friends, silence was among the crowd as each name of all the victims were called out. The theme colors of the event was purple to represent the violence that was done to the victims. The vigil started off at 5:30pm and ended at 6:15pm with four white doves flying in the air for all the domestic violence fatalities.
The main speaker Tanisha Bagley was a victim of domestic violence herself. She talked about her past experience and encouraged all women who were in a violent relationship to seek help.
“I been there when I had black eyes and busted lips. At the time I did not love myself enough to leave. I then realized that I needed help and that I couldn't stay with someone who kept hurting me. I am not here to preach, I am just here to tell you my story and that if you need help or you know someone who needs help, please reach out. Never stay silent about issues like this. If I would have stayed silent then maybe I would not be standing here in front of you all today”
Many family members and friends came to the vigil with pictures of their loved ones on their shirts. Others came with purple balloons and posters that were made in remembrance for victims. Many people among the crowd stood there holding hands, while some were crying being consulted by people around them who could see their hurt.
The vigil happens every year and is an opportunity to understand that issues like this actually happen. It also shows what the community needs to do in order to help out. We have to help each other with resources for those who want to get out of those violent situations. Over all, it starts by not staying silence and Remembering their names.
