More than 60 people came together on Sept. 28 for a colorful event in Voorhees aimed at raising awareness of domestic violence.
The Saree Walk for Solidarity, organized by the Voorhees-Gibbsboro Lions Club, featured women of different nationalities and backgrounds dressed in vibrant sarees carrying signs around the township’s Saddlehill Winery to highlight the importance of speaking out.
The event was designed to encourage minority women to raise their voices and foster support networks for survivors, according to Sapana Raval, vice president of the Lions Club and a member of the Voorhees Cultural and Diversity Committee.
“Events like the Domestic Violence Walk hold significant importance for raising awareness in our local community,” she explained. “They provide a platform for open dialogue and education, helping to dispel myths and break the silence surrounding domestic violence.
“By coming together, we can foster a community that prioritizes safety and compassion.”
Raval added that cultural communities can leverage their diversity to support survivors.
“My participation in this walk aimed to send a message of unity and hope, showing that we stand together against domestic violence and are committed to supporting those affected by it,” she noted, describing how the most powerful moment of the day was witnessing the unity and determination of participants from all walks of life.
Mimi Hadi, secretary and founder of the Lions Club, echoed that.
“Joining together publicly to speak out against domestic violence is important,” she observed. “Oftentimes, victims are silent and need to know they’re not alone. The Saree Walk is an example of how a cultural community can show support for those suffering from abuse.”
Community member Heather Rubin reflected on the event’s emotional impact.
“I was deeply moved by the strength and bravery of the incredible women who came out to share their stories or show their unwavering support,” she recounted. “The sarees they wore – vibrant and full of life – mirrored the strength of their spirits.”
Lions Club president Kim Gill reported that turnout of about 60 people exceeded expectations.
“It was incredible to see so many people come out and show their support,” she recalled. “There were definitely a few moments that stood out, where I really felt the power of the community. One moment was when one lady openly shared her experiences with domestic violence, her struggles and triumphs.
“It was amazing to see everyone come together, supporting each other for the same cause.”
“If we as a society and community stay silent, then there is no awareness,” emphasized Voorhees resident Lisa Witherspoon. “This will allow people to stay ignorant, which will lead the victims to believe they are alone. This has created a staggering increase in domestic violence.
“We must protect the survivors.”
“With such a strong showing and high energy, organizers are hopeful that next year’s walk will be even bigger,” noted Lions Club marketing chair Rup Chakravarty. “Seeing so many new faces and hearing positive feedback from participants gives me a lot of hope that next year will be even bigger.
“It’s inspiring to see how this event has grown and how many people are motivated to be a part of something bigger than themselves.”
