WARREN - As the temperature began to fall Monday, dozens of men, women and children gathered around the gazebo in Courthouse Square to celebrate and honor women during Unity Day.
''We've been doing this a number of years now,'' said Pat Porter, director of Someplace Safe, which spearheaded the local effort. ''We mourn those who have perished due to domestic violence and honor and celebrate women and children who have survived it.''
Members of the community huddled together as state Rep. Tom Letson, D-Warren, and Trumbull County Commissioner Frank Fuda presented proclamations honoring October as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month and Oct. 5 as Unity Day.
In a demonstration of those affected by domestic violence, members of Someplace Safe set out more than 300 pairs of shoes, each representing a different person.
''This is the first time we've tried this,'' said Porter. ''We thought it was a good visual. Hopefully, next year we'll have all 1460 pairs.'' She said 1,460 is the number of victims that lose lose their lives each year as a result of domestic violence.
Warren Municipal Court Judge Thomas Gysegem served as the event's guest speaker. He discussed the recent trends in domestic violence.
According to Gysegem, the number of domestic violence charges has remained constant over the past several years.
''In 2007, we had 373 domestic violence charges. In 2008, we had 373. And in 2009, which is three fourths of the way over, we have had 267 charges ... on par for another 270 to 400 cases,'' Gysegem said.
For some of those in attendance, the vigil was more personal.
''Domestic violence affects men, women and children,'' said Michelle Dye. ''I lost my son in a domestic violence dispute. He was protecting me ... it doesn't just affect women, it affects their children.''
Dye said she lost her son, Brandon Fluet, on June 20, 2006, when he was shot trying to protect her.
Victoria West, mother of Jameila West, also was in attendance, honoring the loss of her daughter and her three grandchildren who were killed in Columbus in 2006.
Those in attendance also were asked to sign a pledge to do all they can to stop domestic violence throughout the community.
As part of its mission, Someplace Safe provides advocacy, education, supportive services, crisis intervention and shelter for families.
