Jan. 27, 2012
Justice McGee Brown Lends Voice to Domestic Violence Initiative
Supreme Court of Ohio Justice Yvette McGee Brown last night gave her support to a Columbus group formed to combat domestic violence in the state’s South Asian community. Speaking at the ASHA-Ray of Hope sponsor appreciation dinner, Justice McGee Brown commended the organization for its work empowering those affected by intimate partner violence.
“It’s so meaningful that you have the word ‘hope’ built right into the name of your organization,” she said.
“Martin Luther King once said it's hard to take the first step when you can't see the entire staircase. For so many women trapped in domestic violence, it's hard to take that first step. Their abusers have spent years convincing them that they aren't worthy of love or respect. That's why the work of ASHA-Ray of Hope is so important. You provide hope when women think there is none." Justice McGee Brown said.
“Through the counseling and education services you provide, the referrals and transportation to shelters where these women and their children can feel safe again, you are helping to restore hope,” she said. “Thank you for your efforts to strengthen Ohio’s children and families.”
Miya Chen, senior advisor on Community Engagement for the White House Initiative on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, joined Justice McGee Brown at the dinner.
Founded in 2003, ASHA-Ray of Hope is a nonprofit organization that offers culture-specific support and counseling to families affected by intimate partner violence. The group works with 20 partner agencies to provide education and awareness services as well as legal and financial resources.
Learn more about ASHA-Ray of Hope.
To read more about Justice McGee Brown, visit www.supremecourt.ohio.gov.
For a high-resolution, print-quality photo of Justice McGee Brown, visit: http://www.supremecourt.ohio.gov/PIO/news/images/justices/mcgeeBrown_highres.zip.
Contact: Chris Davey or Regina Koehler at 614.387.9250.