As part of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, the Miami-Dade County Domestic Violence Oversight Board (DVOB) hosted a First Responders Roundtable to address the pervasive issue of domestic and intimate partner violence. The gathering, which took place on April 9 at the Dr. Dorothy Bendross-Mindingall Social-Economic Institute in Liberty City, served as a platform for law enforcement, first responders, and victim advocates to discuss and strategize on tackling this pressing issue.
The event, as reported by Miami-Dade government's official website, began with a moment of silence honoring the victims of a recent triple murder in Broward County. Attendees then turned their attention to the hard work of finding solutions, these discussions underscored by a memorial table with candles symbolizing the lives lost to such violence. North Miami City Clerk and DVOB Public Engagement Committee Chair Vanessa Joseph, Esq., emceed the event, while Dr. Jonathan Spikes, founder of the Affirming Youth Foundation, provided the keynote address.
Moderator Barbie Brewer, Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office’s victim advocate manager, led a panel featuring representatives from critical community services, including the Miami-Dade Fire Rescue and the Community Action and Human Services Department. The discussions tackled a range of issues, including barriers to services, the importance of early intervention, and the necessity for culturally responsive and trauma-informed care — a key aspect of supporting survivors in their journey towards healing.
The DVOB is not losing momentum; it proactively intends to maintain the community's focus on domestic violence. In October, coinciding with Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the board will hold two film screenings aimed to educate and empower crime victims throughout the county. Access to support services is available around the clock via a 24/7 Domestic Violence Helpline which accepts calls and text messages, offering a lifeline to those in crisis.
Community involvement is a priority for the DVOB — its meetings are open to the public and provide opportunities for Miami-Dade residents to share their experiences and insights regarding domestic violence issues. The county upholds its commitment to providing equal access and opportunity in its programs, and encourages those requiring accommodations for the meetings to reach out to DVOB Executive Director Elizabeth Regalado.
Miami-Dade continues to promote an inclusive community through the Office of Community Advocacy, which oversees a collection of advisory boards that include the Domestic Violence Oversight Board. To stay informed about community efforts and updates, the public can follow the board on social media platforms such as Facebook and subscribe to the Office of Community Advocacy’s YouTube channel.
