SWAINTON — T-shirts emblazoned with encouraging messages from sexual assault survivors flapped wildly on a clotheline strung between pines in Cape May County Park Sat., April 16.
They silently told the story of lives marred, but not stilled, of an indomitable spirit that showed itself alive with the will go forge ahead and not look back. “I DID survive, now I thrive,” stated one. “Love isn’t supposed to hurt,” declared another. “Embrace diversity rather than judge,” urged still another.
Those silent statements set the backdrop for the third annual “Walk in the Park Against Sexual Assault” sponsored by the Coalition Against Rape and Abuse (C.A.R.A.) at Cape May County Park Sat. April 16.
About 50 walked through the park in honor of those who suffered sexual assault, and who had survived, and were made stronger because of the willingness to stand together with advocates in an effort to eradicate the crime.
Performers of varying ages from the Gibson School of Irish Dance provided lively Irish steps, jumping and stepping, and swinging to music.
Martina Bumpus of C.A.R.A., event coordinator, introduced Kayla Albert of Court House was keynote speaker at the brief event, held at an open park shelter. She told the crowd she has “big plans to change not only this county, but this nation.”
“You are the only one who can walk in your shoes,” she noted. She urged everyone to “embrace diversity,” and that, while “circumstances vary, being unique” was the key to self.
Also addressing the gathering was Miss Cape May County Anna Negron, who will represent the county in the Miss New Jersey Pageant later this year, and Amy Phillips, of Seaville, Miss Cape May County Outstanding Teen.
Sen. Jeff VanDrew (D-1st) accompanied by Assemblyman Matthew Milam (D-1st) joined the event and presented a resolution to Soroptimists for the work they do in support of C.A.R.A.
Kristen Bixby, C.A.R.A. executive director, addressed the crowd and thanked who participated in the day’s event for their support and understanding.
For information on services C.A.R.A. can provide regarding sexual assault visit:http://www.cara-cmc.org/sexual-assault.htm
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