East Windsor Township Hosts Tree Lighting Ceremony in Recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM)
Published on April 24, 2017
East Windsor Mayor Janice Mironov, in recognition of April as Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM), hosted a tree lighting ceremony in conjunction with Womanspace. Participants included Womanspace counselor Alana Goebel, Chief of Police James Geary and Township police officers, and Council Members Perry Shapiro, Alan Rosenberg, and John Zoller.
The tree, which sits along One Mile Road outside the East Windsor Police/Court Building, was decorated with teal lights to symbolize the community’s commitment to sexual assault awareness, deterrence and prevention. This year’s theme for the lighting is “Choose Respect”. Womanspace, a not-for-profit agency, is the primary Mercer County – based organization providing a comprehensive array of services to individuals impacted by domestic violence and sexual assault.
Mayor Mironov stated, “we hope that our participation will help focus public attention on the important subject of sexual assault and domestic violence present in all communities throughout our state and nation, and encourage residents to become more aware of support systems and resources available to victims and families. This year’s efforts are geared to involve new groups and individuals in expanding sexual assault prevention efforts in our communities and promote attitudes for healthy relationships, equality and respect.”
Womanspace counselor Alana Goebel stated that, “ the ceremony of lighting the tree sends publicly the message that victims are not alone and demonstrates a strong coordinated community response that can make a substantial difference in the lives of victims and their families.” She thanked all attending for their support and joining with Womanspace to raise awareness in the community and for demonstrating support to victims of sexual assault.
PHOTOGRAPH:
East Windsor Township, joined by elected officials, police officers, Womanspace, and local volunteers light local tree teal lights in recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Pictured, (from left to right) are: Deputy Mayor Perry Shapiro; Susan Strober; Council Member Alan Rosenberg; Police Lieutenant Cory Paieda; Police Lieutenant Jeffrey Dorrian; Police Lieutenant Christopher Jackson; Council Member John Zoller; Chief of Police James Geary; Mayor Janice S. Mironov; Womanspace counselor Alana Goebel; Womanspace volunteer Samir; Womanspace volunteer Lisseth; Womanspace volunteer Linda; Police Detective Joseph Gorski, and Womanspace volunteer Salim.
