Last week, I had the pleasure of spending time with Mildred Muhammad. While many around the globe know her as the ex-wife of the DC Sniper and being an amazing speaker and author, I am pleased to say that I have a different type of relationship with her.
I am proud to call her my sister, friend, colleague and fellow warrior in bringing education, awareness and overall change regarding issues related to domestic violence and sexual assault. When I first reached out to her, it was to be a guest on our nonprofit’s radio show, Boots on the Ground. Keep in mind, I’ve been following her for years. But, because of her celebrity, I was actually afraid to reach out to her, fearing that we were too small and she would not have time. But, because I do not believe that we should live or operate in the spirit of fear, I decided to go ahead and contact her. She was soooooo easy going and personable. I felt a real sense of conviction come over me. She was quite humble and graciously accepted the invitation to be our special guest.
But, it is what happened afterwards that makes knowing her more meaningful for me. She made me feel comfortable to share things I hadn’t shared with others. There are times when you just feel the need to keep your thoughts guarded, even when you need to share them. She advised me. She encouraged me. She corrected me. She reminded me. She made time for me. I knew from that moment on, I had a genuine connection with her. It wasn’t about social media likes or bragging about ‘who you know’. I know if I need her or just want to catch up, laugh or vent, I can do it. And, I believe she knows the same is true for her with me.
So, even though she was busy with speaking, workshops, book signings and radio interviews last week, she made certain we spent time together. It was not advertised. No selfies were taken to be posted.lol Just two sisters who share a foundation of faith and like minded spirits chatting. And, if you’re reading this and have not yet ordered the book, you can do so using this link: http://www.mildredmuhammad.com/publications.html
June is nationally recognized as Pride Month. It’s an opportunity to recognize and show a solidarity of support for the LGBT community. Men and women who lost their lives due to HIV/AIDS and hate crimes are remembered. What started as a Gay Pride Day has grown tremendously. Unfortunately, the LGBT community deals with domestic violence with less support and resources. There is still a lot of debate centered around gay marriages, transgender bathrooms and an overall respect for one to live his or her life in the way that’s most comfortable. Even though there are a number of barriers which still need to be addressed, I’ve seen a positive surge of help, hope, support, acceptance and most of all, love over the years.
Nationally, we as a society just paid tribute to the 49 lives lost last year at the Pulse nightclub in Orlando, FL. It was a senseless crime carried out based on a foundation of hate. The way the family members and friends have come together after this tragedy has definitely been inspiring. It is my hope as we continue to address the many intersections of domestic violence that we include and enforce tougher laws on hate crimes and provide more inclusive means to support ALL communities in need of services. Abuse knows no boundaries and neither should service providers or elected officials when it comes to providing resources and holistic support.
MAJOR ANNOUNCEMENT! I’ve been selected as a finalist for the upcoming #IALAwards to be held in Baltimore, MD on Saturday, June 24, 2017. Learn more about this groundbreaking event at www.IndieAuthorLegacyAwards.com
This honor is HUGE for me. I view my experiences as lessons. It has always been my hope to help others to restore their lives holistically. My life has transitioned in a tremendously positive way. And, I’ve been able to speak, teach and train locally and nationally because of it. I want to always be found being a servant leader, and it’s an honor to have others notice my efforts in a way worthy of acknowledgment. If you’re in the Baltimore, MD area in June (or will be in the area), it would be great to see you at the event.
As Executive Director of Walking Into A New Life, Inc., it is extremely important to me that we continue to find ways to share tangible resources with victims and survivors of domestic violence. Our latest campaign involves something that everyone can participate in and doesn’t cost anything to do so. We’re asking everyone to help us collect old cellphones to help those in need to have safe and effective communication.
Verizon Wireless has a Hopeline program which collects old cellphones and accessories. The phones are reprogrammed and given to victims and survivors of abuse. Many times, those who are dealing with abuse are isolated from family and friends. They are connected to cellphone plans owned by their abuser. Their phones are monitored by the abuser. This keeps those who are being victimized from communicating freely. Providing them with cellphones provides them with safe communication and independence.
During the month of April, we will be assisting in this campaign. It doesn’t matter how old the phone is or if it’s broken. The style or brand doesn’t matter either. We just need the phones. If you want to help, it doesn’t matter where you are. You CAN help. Just ask how. Email us here: info@wianl.org.
