EVE screening prompts discussion of domestic violence
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MARIETTA -- A screening of "The Invisible Man" brought advocates, law enforcement officers, health care professionals and community members together Oct. 22 to discuss domestic violence and the challenges survivors face.
EVE Inc. hosted the free event at Washington State College of Ohio in recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The screening was followed by a panel discussion and audience questions.
The 2020 psychological thriller follows a woman who escapes an abusive relationship but continues to experience fear and control while struggling to convince others of the danger she faces. According to EVE, the film provided a starting point for discussing psychological manipulation, isolation and other forms of abuse.
Panelists included Sonja Ferencik of the Ohio Domestic Violence Network, who has more than 38 years of experience in domestic violence advocacy and trauma-informed services; Marietta police Sgt. Jason Wallace; Vanessa Goins, a peer recovery support specialist with Peer Solutions and a domestic violence survivor; Linda Sistrunk, director of behavioral health at Memorial Health Systems and EVE board president; and Mishelle Trescott, a registered nurse, certified adult and pediatric sexual assault nurse examiner and 12-year Army veteran.
Panelists discussed how domestic violence extends beyond physical harm to include intimidation, threats, financial control and behaviors intended to maintain power over another person. Some forms of abuse occur privately and may be difficult for people outside the relationship to recognize.
The conversation also addressed the emotional, financial and safety concerns that can make it difficult for survivors to leave abusive relationships or seek help. Panelists encouraged attendees to consider those circumstances without judging survivors' decisions.
Health care providers, behavioral health professionals and community organizations can be positioned to recognize signs of abuse before someone discloses it, panelists said.
"Trauma-informed care is just essential," Sistrunk said.
The discussion emphasized listening without judgment, respecting survivors' choices and understanding how trauma affects their decisions. Panelists also addressed how stalking, harassment, intimidation and attempts at control may continue after a relationship ends.
Audience questions expanded the conversation to recognizing warning signs, responding to disclosures and connecting survivors with support. The event emphasized cooperation among advocates, law enforcement, health care providers and community organizations.
EVE Executive Director Trina Rataiczak said she hopes the event leads to continued conversations and educational opportunities.
"Domestic violence awareness is not limited to October," Rataiczak said.
She said education is essential to changing attitudes, challenging misconceptions and preventing abuse.
EVE plans to offer additional community education events addressing domestic violence, sexual assault, healthy relationships and other issues affecting survivors and families.