New Horizons closes Domestic Violence Awareness Month with vigil

Candlelight vigil remembers those killed in violence, offers support for survivors

LA CROSSE, Wis. (WKBT) — People in La Crosse are marking the end of Domestic Violence Awareness month by remembering those lost to violence.

New Horizons held its annual candlelight vigil Monday afternoon on the campus of UW-La Crosse.

The vigil allows domestic abuse survivors to share their stories with each other while also reflecting on loved ones who were killed by an abusive partner.

“It can be a really powerful experience for community members and survivors alike to come together in a moment of solidarity and just show our respect for those lost, and also show our support for those who are maybe still in a relationship or maybe still suffering from the consequences of a relationship that ended a long time ago,” said New Horizons resource advocate Kyle Marmesh.

Marmesh says 48 people in Wisconsin were killed as a result of domestic abuse last year. That number is already up to 53 this year.