Clergy Briefing on Ending Violence Against Women

On March 4, 2015, more than twenty faith leaders representing a variety of religious denominations gathered for a luncheon briefing with Dr. Jackson Katz. This internationally recognized author, filmmaker, and educator highlighted the connections between violence in the home and violence in the community. Dr. Katz also emphasized that clergy, who typically hold positions of respect, moral courage, and authority, have an important leadership role in preventing domestic and sexual violence. The interactive dialogue that followed provided concrete ideas and suggestions for how congregations and religious communities can be part of supporting healthy, respectful relationships, stronger families, and more peaceful communities.

The event, which was sponsored by the Pittsburgh Area Jewish Committee, East End Cooperative Ministries, Christian Associations of Southwest Pennsylvania, South Hills Interfaith Ministries, FISA Foundation, Heinz Endowments, and the United Way of Allegheny County, also brought victim service agencies and other community resources to the table and stressed the regional prevention efforts already underway. We are working on a toolkit that will include worship-related material to help clergy and congregations across Southwestern Pennsylvania speak out and take action in preventing violence against women.

We are also actively seeking partners to implement this year’s Father’s Day Pledge to end violence against women; a regional effort that takes place on Father’s Day, and encourages men to take a stand against violence. To find out how you and your faith community can become a partner in this work, contact us.