What do you do if you’re a Charlotte pastor looking to shine a spotlight on the problem of domestic violence?
You host a men’s fashion show, of course.
That’s the idea that emerged when Bishop Claude Alexander Jr. of The Park Church and the Rev. James Howell of Myers Park United Methodist Church decided to join forces around the issue.
All they needed was a name.
Well, what about the “Man-Up Against Domestic Violence” fashion show?
In a joint statement announcing this year’s event, Alexander acknowledged that a fashion show to combat domestic violence might seem “nontraditional,” but he said the event would be “informative,” “entertaining,” and “engaging for all.”
Behind the fashion and fun will be a serious message.
“Domestic violence is a huge issue the churches have often failed to address,” Howell said. “This joint project with our friends at the Park hopefully will give visibility to its importance in not just our churches but all in our area.”
According to the churches’ announcement, Charlotte-Mecklenburg police responded to more than 36,000 domestic violence calls last year.
“The event will focus on teaching people about the warning signs of domestic violence and bringing awareness to the prevalent issue,” the churches said in the announcement.
“…The fashion show will include local celebrities and present its guest with an opportunity to engage with notable people in the Charlotte fashion, business and philanthropic communities.”
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:
• 1 in 4 women and 1 in 9 men will experience domestic violence, also known as intimate partner violence (IPV).
• Domestic violence (IPV) includes sexual assaults, physical abuse, threats, stalking and intimidation.
• 52 percent of women and 17 percent of men who are victimized show symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder.
WANNA GO?
Date: Oct. 14
Time: 7 p.m.
Place: The Park Expo
Cost: $25-$50 (discounts for children and students)
Tickets: www.manupagainstdv.org
Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
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