Video: 2024 Office of Violence Against Women Conference
Rosie Hildalgo, Director, Office of Violence Against Women addressing conference attendees
In a concerted effort to tackle the pressing issue of violence against women, the University of Alabama at Birmingham's (UAB) Division of Student Affairs hosted stakeholders from all over Alabama on February 22 from 10:30 a.m. to noon. The event was coordinated by the Alabama State Attorney’s Office (SAO). Among the distinguished participants were representatives from the Alabama State Attorney's Office (SAO) and Director Rosie Hidalgo from the Office of Violence Against Women.
The conference, held at the UAB campus in the Hill Student Center Ballroom and virtually via video stream, served as a platform for collaborative discussions to address the multifaceted challenges surrounding violence against women. In addition, the SAO invited representatives from campuses and organizations across the state to join this meeting to learn more about campus grant opportunities from the Office of Violence Against Women.
Director Hidalgo opened the meeting by highlighting the importance of interagency cooperation and community engagement in confronting gender-based violence. Drawing on her extensive experience in advocating for victims' rights, Hidalgo underscored the significance of proactive measures to prevent and respond to instances of violence and encouraged participants to work together and seek federal funding for new initiatives
Attendees shared insights into ongoing initiatives aimed at enhancing support systems for survivors of gender-based violence. Their contributions shed light on the critical role of law enforcement agencies, legislative bodies, and campus partners in ensuring justice and protection for individuals affected by such acts.
L-R: Mica Harrell, Director, UAB Wellness Promotion, Rosie Hildalgo, Director, OVW, and Rebecca Kennedy, Ph.D., UAB AVP, Student Health & Wellbeing
Rebecca Kennedy, Ph.D., assistant vice president of Student Health and Wellbeing, emphasized the university's commitment to promoting positive societal change. "As the first Health Promoting University in the United States and an institution dedicated to education, research, and community engagement, UAB recognizes the urgency of addressing issues like violence against women," stated Kennedy. "By convening key stakeholders and facilitating meaningful dialogue, we aim to drive actionable solutions that promote safety, equity, and dignity for all."
Throughout the morning, participants engaged in discussions and networking opportunities designed to exchange knowledge, share best practices, and forge partnerships. Topics ranged from the intersectionality of gender-based violence to strategies for enhancing victim support services and improving legal responses
“The collaborative spirit and collective determination evident among attendees underscored the significance of cooperative efforts in addressing violence against women,” said Mica Harrell, director of UAB’s Wellness Promotion. “By leveraging diverse stakeholders' expertise and resources, the event held at UAB helped lay the groundwork for sustained action and progress in creating safer, more equitable communities.”
As the discussions concluded, participants departed with a renewed sense of purpose and a commitment to advancing the cause of gender equality and justice. With continued collaboration and dedication, the fight against violence against women remains an achievable goal - one that resonates deeply within the halls of academia, the corridors of power, and the hearts of communities across Alabama and beyond.