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Shedding light on domestic violence

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Kelsey Tucker
  • 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. --  Domestic violence survivors shared their stories with approximately 120 people during a Domestic Violence Survivor’s Luncheon in Sumter, South Carolina, Oct. 21.

The event, attended by members of the Sumter and Shaw Air Force Base communities, was sponsored by Shaw AFB Family Advocacy and the YWCA Upper Lowlands.

“Events like this are important because there are referral agencies available that people are not aware of,” said Lillian Hadley-Small, 20th Medical Operations Squadron domestic abuse victim advocate. “Through collaborating with these agencies, the base personnel are made aware of other avenues for getting assistance.”

The featured guest speaker was Mildred Muhammad, a survivor of domestic violence and ex-wife of John Muhammad, the D.C. Sniper.

“Even when I was a victim – don’t call me that; that’s a mindset,” said Muhammad. “I’m a survivor, I’m a warrior, and I will not go through my life with bags with John’s name on them. I’ve been through every issue of my pain to make sure I was done. I’m completely healed and so are my children, and we are living life. If you see me laughing, I’m laughing because I’m happy, not to keep from crying.”

As Muhammad stood before the gathered crowd to tell her story, she also spoke to those in attendance who had been victims of domestic violence and reminded them that they are strong.

“If you are a victim or a survivor of domestic violence, you have people telling you that you will never come out of it, you will never heal,” said Muhammad. “That’s a lie.”

The story she told was relevant to the military community, as it dealt with not only domestic violence but also post-traumatic stress disorder.

“Due to the fact that Ms. Muhammad was a military spouse, her experience provided other military spouses with information and key things to look for if you suspect your spouse needs professional medical assistance,” said Hadley-Small.

Other events held throughout October to promote Domestic Violence Awareness Month included a candlelight vigil, a library display, and visits to local schools from Shaw’s Family Advocacy Program.

Although the month of October is dedicated to promoting awareness for domestic violence, resources for victims and survivors are always available. Shaw AFB Family Advocacy can be reached at (803) 895-6201, or through their Facebook page (Shaw Air Force Base Family Advocacy and Resiliency Programs).