Having been a survivor of domestic abuse, I understand first hand the importance of education and awareness in preventing such experiences for others.

33 years ago at the age of 26 I met and fell in love with a  good looking man who showered me with what i thought was love and affection. Slowly he began to control me, allianating me from family and friends, criticising me to lower my self esteem, controlling where I went, who I spoke to and physically abusing me if I tried to stand up for myself.

During my own struggles, I yearned for guidance and resources that could have empowered me to understand, recognize, and escape the downward spiral of abuse. This is why I am passionate about The Freedom Project—a program that educates young people about the dynamics of healthy relationships, consent, and the prevention of domestic abuse. 

The Freedom Project offers invaluable insights and tools to both girls and boys, equipping them with the necessary knowledge to build respectful and non-violent relationships. In a world where one in four women and one in six men will experience domestic violence in their lifetime, the education provided by this project is absolutely crucial. Programs like these can transform lives by encouraging open communication and fostering environments where students feel safe to discuss and report.

All high schools should implement The Freedom Project as part of their curriculum. By doing so, we can create a safer future for our children, where domestic abuse is drastically reduced. Schools play a pivotal role in shaping the values and behaviors of young people, and including such programs can prevent the normalization of abusive behaviors.

In addition to teaching essential life skills, The Freedom Project also supports teachers with resources and training, ensuring they are well-prepared to guide and support their students through these difficult topics.

Join me in urging the Department of Education and local school boards to adopt The Freedom Project in all high schools. By signing this petition, you contribute towards fostering a new generation equipped with respect, empathy, and resilience against domestic abuse. Let's make a change that could save countless lives—sign now to support the implementation of The Freedom Project in schools nationwide.