A Gathering of Reflection & Hope

On April 23, NextStep Domestic Violence Project, together with Passamaquoddy Peaceful Relations Domestic Violence and Sexual Violence Advocacy Center, and Indian Township Passamaquoddy Domestic Violence and Sexual Violence Advocacy Center, held a “A Gathering for Reflection & Hope” at the beautiful Sipp Bay Preserve, Maine Coast Heritage Trust.

“After a painful winter of loss, violence, and isolation, in which there were several domestic violence-related homicides, we were hearing from Washington County community members that many were scared, angry, and experiencing heightened risk or danger,” said Anna Viertel, NextStep Coordinator of Community Response. “We asked ourselves, how can we facilitate a safe, confidential process to express feelings, experiences, or needs around domestic violence and its impacts on individuals and communities in recent months, even years?”

During the event, which was supported by Machias Savings Bank and featured music by Colie Brice, Marcie Dean, Transitional Services Advocate, said, “Throughout the past months, our rural communities have felt significant pain and loss. We have gathered in Sipp Bay’s beautiful setting to remember our friends, family, and those we knew who lost their lives to acts of domestic violence.

“Every feeling about the tragedies that unfolded in Washington County is valid. Hurt, anger, fear, confusion, and vulnerability coexist in our minds, mingled with a disbelief that something like that could happen here … we want to reassure you that we care about you, and we want to listen.”

Marcie also talked about how Domestic Violence can be something that isolates and overwhelms, how being present to listen and believe is a powerful gift that can make a difference to a survivor of domestic violence. She said that change in our communities is possible.

In closing, she quoted the words of Tolkien: “Some people believe that it is only great power that can hold evil in check. But that is not what I have found. I have found it is the small, everyday deeds done by ordinary folk that keeps the darkness at bay, small acts of kindness and love.”  

NextStep recognizes that Sipp Bay Preserve is located in the homeland of the Passamaquoddy Tribe, where issues of water and territorial rights, and encroachment upon sacred sites, are ongoing. The Passamaquoddy Tribe and the other Wabanaki Tribal Nations are distinct, sovereign, legal and political entities with their own powers of self-governance and self-determination. We are grateful to our Passamaquoddy partners for welcoming us to this beautiful land .