SYP highlights anti-domestic violence coalition

Members of the Saipan Young Professionals present NMI Coalition Against Sexual and Domestic Violence program manager Angelyn Nimwes with a certificate of appreciation for taking part in the organization’s Inspirational Speakers Night. (Contributed Photo)

Program manager Angelyn Nimwes shared general information about the coalition, including a history of its formation in 2006. Nimwes stated that the coalition was incorporated in response to Public Law 14-09, or Rosalia’s Law. Passed in 2006, the law criminalizes domestic violence. Since then, the coalition has provided various services in the realm of domestic and sexual violence including outreach and education, community awareness, advocacy and policy change, to name a few. Although the coalition does not provide direct services, they do provide referrals to their partner agencies, including Karidat Social Services, the Ayuda Network, and the Community Guidance Center.

With the recurring number of domestic and sexual violence cases in the CNMI, Nimwes highlighted the need for organizations, including the Saipan Young Professionals, to be advocates and to work with them to “make a difference.” She said the coalition is working on implementing more programs to further assist the victims of these crimes.

In their group discussion, SYP member and public school teacher Tara White pointed out the importance of doing outreach to students at younger grade levels. Nimwes agreed that the coalition will take a proactive step toward educating students of all grade levels. She said it is their hope to break the cycle of students “normalizing” domestic and sexual violence behaviors.

“Violence has a ripple effect. It not only affects the families of the victims, it affects the entire community,” she said.

In addition to an open discussion, Nimwes touched on the various events that the coalition organizes throughout the year, including the most recent “Day of Unity” in October.

“We hope that as young professionals, your organization can help us further advocate for the coalition. We can’t do it alone. Even with the help of our legislative leaders and community members, it takes a collective effort,” she told SYP members.

SYP chair Mable Ayuyu thanked Nimwes and the Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence for educating the island and for sharing their knowledge.

“We’re grateful for the coalition and their partner agencies for the work they do for our island community. We hope to participate in their future events and partner with them to bring more awareness throughout the CNMI,” said Ayuyu.

The Saipan Young Professionals is a Committee of the Saipan Chamber of Commerce. For more information about the committee, visit their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/syp96950?fref=ts or you may call the Saipan Chamber of Commerce Office at 234-7150. (SCC)