In honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, please join us for an important webinar with strangulation survivors who are part of the VOICES Survivor Network.  During this webinar, Casey Gwinn, Gael Strack and Dr. Bill Smock, leading experts on non-fatal strangulation, will have a conversation with survivors about their experiences and discuss why strangulation is now called  “The Last Warning Shot.”

A woman who is strangled by her abuser is 750% more likely to be killed by him. Strangulation is the most intense form of power and control and can have devastating psychological effects on victims in addition to life-threatening injuries, the substantial risk of death, delayed and long-term health consequences

Topics will include:

• What is the VOICES network?
• What makes strangulation different?
• Why did he do it?
• The continuum of Power and Control
• What victims need to know about strangulation
• How professionals can talk to victims about the seriousness of strangulation
• Why it is important to encourage victims to seek medical attention
• California’s new law – A duty to warn strangulation survivors and a duty to track stranglers
• The immediate, delayed and long-term consequences of strangulation

Strangulation Survivors from across the country will share their stories and the sheer terror of not being able to breathe, thinking they are going to die, thoughts of their children and how they survived.

The VOICES Survivor Network is a national committee of survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault who volunteer their time by sharing their journey of strength and survival. VOICES members use their collective voice to help others through advocacy, education, and empowerment.  As on-site partners at various Family Justice Centers, survivors offer their unique perspective to provide feedback,  strengthen organizations, help identify gaps in services and identify best practices.  Alliance for HOPE International leads this national network of survivors.

Hosts:

Casey Gwinn, Esq.

Gael Strack, Esq.

Dr. Bill Smock

Special Guests:

Michelle, San Diego, CA

Sara, Ashville, North Carolina

Joyce, Sacramento, CA