Forty people gathered Wednesday night in a "safe place" to support women who have endured psychological and physical abuse.
Whether victims of abuse or supporters of the abused, the members of the crowd released emotional tensions and partook in the healing energy that filled Eisenhower Chapel through poetry, meditation, music and psalm recitation.
This "safe place" was an environment where everyone could feel respected and treasured in the community, said Peggy Lorah, director of the Center for Women Students.
The evening was designed not only for those who have experienced sexual, emotional or relationship violence, but also for the community who supports these victims, said Audra Hixson, program coordinator of the Center for Women Students.
Following a "meditation for releasing pain and letting go," Hixson passed out slips of multicolored tissue paper and Crayola markers, on which participants wrote words they wished to "wash away."
Hixson then placed the unread slips of paper in a clear bowl of water in the center of the chapel as part of a healing ritual.
For many, the ceremony was a somber, yet hopeful reminder of the past.
"The whole idea is for people to feel like they can survive and overcome violence," Heather Shadduck (senior-political science) said. "They come to realize that now they're a stronger person because of that."
Penn State alumna Cidalia Cornelio thought the event was an important experience for many.
"It affects a lot of people. It's important to hear other peoples' voices because it gives you a connection," said Cornelio.
Beth Clark (graduate-higher education) said she had high expectations for the audience, which was twice the size as last year's.
Lorah shared a quote by Helen Keller to help set the tone for the evening.
"Although the world is full of suffering, it is also filled with the overcoming of it," Lorah read.
