OKMULKE, Oklv. – During “Domestic Violence Awareness Month”the Muscogee (Creek) Nation held events to bring awareness to this issue. These included a handful of presentations that were put on by the MCN Center for Victim Services, which were held at the Mvskoke Dome in Okmulgee on Oct. 10 and 11.
Center for Victim Services held this interactive presentation titled “In Her Shoes,” in order to give participants and attendees an idea of what it is like for survivors of domestic violence to navigate through struggles such as leaving a violent situation,going to a shelter, joining a support group, seeking some sort of professional help, or attempting to seek help from family. Through the stories of real people who experienced domestic violence,the complex nature and the barriers that people can face when attempting to confront it are revealed
During the course of this event, Mvskoke Media sat down with MaCaylin Autaubo, the Outreach Coordinator for the MCN Center for Victim Services in order to gain insight on the events they are holding throughout the month.
“They’ve been really successful so far,” Autaubo said. “We started our month off at the Wetumka Elderly Nutrition Center with a pop-up booth, and we also did another booth at the Okmulgee Elderly Nutrition Center.”
“So we were able to talk to some elders, get their input on the DV situation that we typically face on the Reservation, along with different resources that they would like to see across the community.”
According to Autaubo, the month’s activities even taught relaxation techniques.
“We also held a guided meditation that we hosted here in Okmulgee for employees to come out and take the time to ground themselves, relax, and then kickstart our month off,” Autaubo said. “Our ‘In Her Shoes’ activities have been successful as well, and today is our last session, and so we’re closing out on a high note.”For those who wish to learn more about Domestic Violence Awareness Month and what MCN Center for Victim Services is doing to combat domestic violence, you can call them at (918) 732-7979 or check out their Facebook, Muscogee Creek Nation Center for Victim Services.
