Community clinic looks to empower victims of domestic violence

LYNWOOD -- To promote community empowerment among victims of domestic violence and in honor of Violence Against Women Month, a panel of experts will address the mental health dynamics, legal elements and resources available for victims of domestic violence this Saturday, Oct. 28.

The event will take place in Lynwood's Plaza Mexico at the office of Centro Jalisco located at 3200 Mulford Avenue in Lynwood.  
 
Speakers include American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) National President Annaluisa Padilla and forensic psychologist Dr. Edgar Villamarin.
 
Topics will include the dynamics of domestic violence, cycle of violence, navigating the criminal justice system, VAWA, U-Visas, restraining/protective orders, marriage dissolution/spousal support and resource for victims of domestic violence.
 
The Victim Empowerment Clinic will focus on delivery of services, tangible support, and education to the community to “Break the Cycle” of violence against victims of domestic violence.

“Recently, batterers have taken to use the rising fears of deportation to inflict emotional pain and exert even more control over their victims," said Maria Torres, Ferias Legales representative. "The clinic will address immigration rights and visas to ensure that undocumented victims of domestic violence seek and receive the necessary protection for themselves and their families.”
 
The event is being organized by the Nonprofit Organization Ferias Legales and Centro Jalisco.