For Immediate Release
October 16, 2007

Contact:    Rick Liebel
                Public Relations and Development Director
                814 455-1774 Ext. 234
                814 881-6530 cell

SafeNet's Silent Witness Figures to be Displayed at the Blasco Memorial Library

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and beginning October 16 through October 26 four red silhouettes will be on display on the second floor gallery at the Blasco Memorial Library along Erie's Bayfront. The Silent Witness Display, represents the ultimate sacrifice paid by a victim of domestic violence. The Silent Witness National Initiative began in 1990 in Minnesota to raise public awareness of domestic violence and create opportunities for healing through a visual memorial.

The Silent Witness are life-size plywood silhouettes painted red. Each one tells the story of a local person who was killed in a domestic violence murder. Displayed together or individually, the figures send a powerful message to all who behold them.

SafeNet is not a homeless shelter, but a safe and confidential place specifically for men, women and children who are victims of domestic violence.  From every city and township in the area, victims come to SafeNet seeking support, safety and shelter from physical abuse and threats of violence occurring at home.  After more than 30 years of providing shelter and many other supportive services, SafeNet knows first-hand that there is hope and there is help. SafeNet is Pennsylvania's oldest continuous running domestic violence shelter.

For interviews with SafeNet's Executive Director or any staff member of SafeNet, contact Rick Liebel, Public Relations and Development Director at 455-1774 extension 234 or email at rliebel@safeneterie.org.