Brides’ March – Gladys Ricart Remembered

Words by Carolina Pichardo

Photography by Paul Lomax (@PaulLomaxPhoto)

Despite the staggering and frightening statistics, silence is still an option among victims of domestic violence. Due to this, it could also very well be just another news headline.

But it’s not.

As of earlier this year, approximately 35 women have died due to domestic violence. Compare that to the 61 victims from the year before, and the 70 that lost their lives in 2008. Now in it’s tenth annual round, the “Gladys Ricart and Victims of Domestic Violence Memorial Walk” brought together different organizations and families to march against domestic violence in what should be the attire of a happy and joyous occasion.

In some sense, however, it was a momentous one with these “brides” walking to denounce domestic violence and letting the streets of Washington Heights (and beyond) know that these acts will not be tolerated.

Contrary to popular beliefs (sadly, we must say), there aren’t women out there that “look for it” or “deserve” to be abused. Victims are not dumb or stupid, but fearful and confused. Domestic violence isn’t just a physical thing, but often much worse—emotional, psychological and financial.

Although the march is now over, we can all still take a stand and give a voice to this issue. Let it be known that beaters never prosper, at least not in our hood.

For more info: http://bridesmarch.com/

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