Georgetown, Kentucky – On Friday evening, Elizabeth’s Village organized a solemn candle walk and vigil to honor the memory of 26 Kentuckians who lost their lives to domestic violence between 2022 and 2023. This poignant event took place in downtown Georgetown, drawing attention to the ongoing battle against domestic violence and the urgent need for systemic change.
The event began with a procession of attendees holding memorial candles, each flame representing a victim. Elizabeth’s Village Director Tyler Brooker lit the candles as survivors and advocates gathered to share their testimonies about the harsh realities of domestic abuse and the struggle for acknowledgment and justice.
Among the speakers was a survivor identified as Mary, who recounted a harrowing experience with her abusive husband. In a chilling narrative, she described how he broke into a friend’s home, armed with a maul and a shotgun intended for her. Despite the gravity of the situation, Mary faced legal challenges in seeking justice, citing that her husband was charged only with burglary—even after a frightening incident where she felt her life was at risk.
Mary shared her frustrations regarding the justice system, revealing that her husband received minimal sentencing due to good behavior. “I think we should keep him in there as long as we can,” she remarked, emphasizing the danger he still posed to her and the community.
Amanda, the sister of a domestic violence victim named Amy, also spoke at the vigil. She recounted how police failed to take her sister’s pleas for help seriously, which ultimately led to her murder. Amanda is actively pursuing legal action against law enforcement for neglecting to intervene during a critical moment before her sister’s death, stating, “There were police officers involved in an incident the evening before she died that could have intervened.”
Another survivor, Laura, expressed her disillusionment with the healthcare system after seeking help for PTSD related to her abuse. She recalled how a doctor dismissed her trauma with a suggestion to take Benadryl. Laura emphasized the need for greater sensitivity and understanding from those in positions to help victims of domestic violence.
The evening concluded with an invitation for open discussions, allowing other survivors to share their journeys and foster hope and healing within the community. As attendees gathered under clear skies, a sentiment resonated throughout the vigil: Everyone has a role in combating domestic violence—listing to one another can create a collective strength in the fight against abuse.
Community resources remain available for those facing domestic violence, including the Scott County Sheriff’s Office at 877-803-7577, Georgetown Police Department at 502-863-7826, and Elizabeth’s Village at 502-603-2116.
