The Melrose Messenger

Melrose Alliance Against Violence Walk Brought Out Melrose Community on Sunday

By Patrick DeVivo

On Sunday, October 6th, a breezy, sunny autumn afternoon, nearly 400 local residents devoted a portion of their weekend to support the fight against the dark scourge of domestic violence. They joined to recognize October as domestic violence awareness month by participating in the 29th annual Melrose Alliance Against Violence (MAAV) vigil and walk. MAAV is an organization formed in 1995 with the goal of raising community awareness of the domestic violence problem and supporting preventive and survivor assistance services in the Melrose community and beyond.

Prior to their two-mile walk that wound through Melrose streets, participants gathered for a program of performances and speakers in the Melrose Middle School auditorium. Speakers Crystal Johnson, Executive Director of MAAV, and Maria Drago, Chair of the Walk Committee, opened the program with welcoming remarks. Keynote remarks were later delivered by Mollie Bracken, an experienced advocate for the Domestic Violence Services Network and a member of RESPOND, New England’s first domestic violence prevention agency. Rabbi Jessica Lowenthal, from Temple Beth Shalom, provided closing remarks and a sendoff to the walkers.

Alternating on the program with these speakers were a musical performance of John Lennon’s “Imagine” by Melrose High Schol students Clio Moock, Sammy McQuaid and Oren Santillo, and a dance performance titled “Courage to Change” by members of the Center Stage Dance Studio, Sylvie Alperen, Ellie Kamosa, Ava Kristan and Naomi Tarantino.

Perhaps the most moving portion of the program was the Reading of Names. One by one, twenty-seven representatives of the Melrose community approached the podium carrying a candle and each read the name, age and city or town of one of the twenty-seven individuals killed by acts of domestic violence in Massachusetts over the past twelve months.

The event was successful in raising over $60,000, according to Executive Director Johnson, through the efforts of many, including 110 business sponsors and 40 walking teams. Funds will go to support the continuing efforts of MAAV to eliminate the epidemic of domestic violence.

“As we reflect on the powerful moments shared during the vigil and walk,” adds Johnson, “I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who participated, near and far. Your presence, compassion, and commitment to raising awareness about domestic violence truly makes a difference in our community.”

Anyone interested in learning more about the problem of domestic violence and the important work of the Melrose Alliance Against Violence in support of the Melrose community, please go to the MAAV website or call 781-662-2010.

Updated October 11th, 2024