A call to remember, a call to action

To the editor:
    There will be bell ringing on Wednesday, Aug. 31st at noon when the Maine Coalition to End Domestic Violence (MCEDV) and domestic violence resource centers across the state ask churches and other community buildings to ring their bells for two minutes.
    We remember and honor the lives of Mainers lost this summer and over the years due to domestic violence and we are issuing a call to action to the general community. Prompted by the recent tragedies in Winslow, Dexter and New Gloucester, people are again asking how to make it clear that Maine will not tolerate a climate of family violence.
    The bell ringing is a symbol of healing and action. People need to remember, and they also are looking for ways to make positive change in their own communities. We are encouraging people to reach out for help if they or someone they care about is in an abusive relationship. There are trained advocates ready to answer the call 24/7 across Maine at 1-866-834-HELP.
Julia Colpitts,
executive director
Margo Batsie,
member services coordinator