February 14 is a day known to most as as Valentine’s Day, where people express the love they have for others. UCF students spent Valentine's Day taking a stand for domestic violence and supporting others they may have never even met.
Onebillionrising.org calls for everyone to work to end violence against women. It was started last year by famed “Vagina Monologues” author Eve Ensler.
During a woman’s life, 1 billion women will be physically abused, which turns out to be about one in three. “It happens every single day and today is just one day to get everyone to stand together and say they will not take it,” said Trisha Whitmire, SafeHouse outreach coordinator.
Booths and tables were set up outside UCF’s Student Union offering domestic violence information. There was also a stage for people to share their stories, support others and even dance.
“If you just don’t speak out about it or tell someone about what’s going on you never know that might be the last day living for that person,” said Andy Jimenez. His mother, Gladys Cabrera, was killed during a domestic violence situation at a Casselberry salon in 2012. She was an innocent bystander who didn't know the shooter.
At one point in the afternoon, more than 100 students joined in a flashmob to Beyonce’s song “Girls” – a song which talks about empowerment and supporting each other.
If you or someone you know is a victim of violence, students can call UCF Victim Services at 407-823-2425.
In Seminole County, call SafeHouse of Seminole County at 407-330-3933.
In Orange County, call Harbor House of Central Florida at 407-886-2856.
Statewide, call Florida Coalition against Domestic Violence at 1-800-500-1119.