SHALVA Hosts Event Addressing Domestic Violence

SHALVA, a domestic violence agency serving the Chicago Jewish Community, hosted a private film screening and lunch program at the Standard Club in Chicago, raising funds and awareness for victims of domestic violence. The event began with the screening of the film “Home Truth,” which debuted on PBS. It is the story of Jessica Gonzales, whose three young daughters were killed after being abducted by their father in violation of a restraining order. Jessica filed a lawsuit, claiming the police department did not adequately enforce her restraining order despite her repeated calls for help. Jessica pursued her case all the way to the United States Supreme Court, and eventually to the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights, where she won.

A record-breaking 420 attendees listened to keynote speaker Caroline Bettinger-López, who served as lead counsel on Jessica Lenahan (Gonzales) v. United States (Inter-American Commission on Human Rights, 2011). This case was the first international human rights case brought by a domestic violence victim against the U.S. Her work established freedom from domestic abuse as a basic human right, and she has written in numerous journals, law reviews and media. The event included a discussion between Former Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan and Bettinger-López.

“Gonzales’ tragic story must continue to be told,” said Carol Ruderman, Executive Director of SHALVA. “Her perseverance and commitment to ensure justice is served continues to inspire others in vulnerable and even dangerous relationships to seek help. This landmark case directs law enforcement to respond to domestic violence calls with urgency and sensitivity. With one in four women affected by domestic violence in this country, SHALVA is committed to providing survivors of domestic violence the highest quality client-centered services, support and resources to help them heal—all at no cost.”

The event raised over $212,000 for SHALVA’s counseling, education and supportive services for Jewish women experiencing and recovering from domestic abuse as well as community education programs.

For more information, please go to www.shalvaonline.org.

About SHALVA

SHALVA’s mission is to support Jewish women experiencing and healing from domestic abuse through counseling, supportive services and community education, and is the oldest independent, Jewish domestic abuse agency in the United States. SHALVA’s vision is a strong and peaceful community where every woman is safe in her home or relationship.

SHALVA is the only Jewish agency in the Chicago metropolitan area specifically certified by the State of Illinois to provide domestic violence counseling. All of SHALVA’s services are free of charge. Each year, SHALVA volunteers and staff educate thousands of individuals about domestic violence in Jewish relationships. SHALVA trains Jewish clergy, lawyers, educators, mental health professionals, medical professionals and community groups in order to increase awareness, knowledge and build skills surrounding domestic abuse.

SHALVA is an active member of the; Illinois Coalition Against Domestic Violence; Chicago Metropolitan Battered Women’s Network; Chicago Says No More; Partnership for a Safer Lake County; JCFS Professional Network; North Shore Alliance; Chicago Bar Association Domestic Relations Committee and Family Violence & Community Collaboration.

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