Fil-Ams in San Francisco hold domestic violence prevention seminar, resource fair

SAN FRANCISCO – A domestic violence prevention seminar and resources fair provided information and educational sources to women and their families at the Kalayaan Hall of the Philippine Center on October 2.

The Alliance for Community Empowerment (ALLICE) hosted its 10^th Annual Free from Violence Seminar and Resource Fair in partnership with the Philippine Consulate General.

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The event sought to increase awareness of the situation of women who are caught in abusive relationships. In her testimony, Giovanni Espiritu, abuse survivor, gave a tearful account of her experiences with various forms of abuse committed by people close to her and her struggle to find justice.

Consul General Henry S. Bensurto, Jr. stated that the issue of domestic violence deserves the full support of all sectors of our community. He also thanked ALLICE for its efforts in raising awareness on domestic violence. He led attendees in a pledge to end domestic violence.

Consul General Bensurto leads the pledge to end domestic violence. Also in the photo are Assemblymember Rob Bonta, Colma Councilmember Joanne Del Rosario and Jose Antonio.

Assemblymember Rob Bonta stressed the importance of building healthy family relationships and teaching and showing the younger members of families the importance of respect. He also stated that laws are in place to protect the victims of domestic violence.

During the seminar, ALLICE’s allies, people and organizations that help the victims and fight for the cause to end domestic violence, were recognized. This year, Mr. and Mrs. Lazaro Fabian of the Epiphany Church Knights of Columbus were honored and commended for their efforts to end domestic violence.

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