“I didn't save Amy. So, I wrote my book to save other Amys. I wrote it because of an inscription at the Holocaust Museum: ‘Thou shalt not be a victim; thou shalt not be a perpetrator, but, above all, thou shalt not be a bystander'," best-selling author Janine Latus told the October Outreach Webinar audience describing the loss of her sister to domestic violence.
Recent webinar presenters, including Latus, shared powerful stories of facing challenges and tragedy, how they dealt with them, and insights into thriving and assisting others coping with the same difficulties.
Sharing her poignant personal story and insights into prevention and intervention, Latus used her loss as the foundation for discussing sexual harassment, sexual assault, domestic violence, and the importance of bystander intervention and supporting victims of these horrific incidents. Although both she and her sister suffered abuse, it was the death of her sister that pushed Latus to become a vocal advocate for victims. Personalizing what are sometimes considered just statistics, she inspired the audience to create environments where people are treated with respect and feel comfortable discussing complex issues. She also challenged the audience to not be complacent in the face of abuse but to speak out for those who cannot speak for themselves.
During the November webinar, Col. Eric Kreitz, assigned to the Army’s 1st Special Forces Command at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, discussed his battle with alcohol while also trying to be a Soldier, husband, and father. Based on his experiences, Kreitz offered insights for individuals dealing with substance misuse issues, Family and friends impacted by the misuse, and leaders who have Soldiers that are struggling. Additionally, in discussing his experiences with the Army Substance Abuse Program, he provided a positive example for Soldiers and others who feel their career could be negatively impacted if they self-refer or are referred to ASAP.
These powerful presentations and more are offered every month during the Army Resilience Directorate’s Outreach Webinar Series. As a professional development forum and platform for discussion, these webinars provide the latest ideas, initiatives, and world-class presenters and are open to everyone. For more information please visit: www.armyresilience.army.mil/ard/webinar. html and follow @ArmyResilience on both Facebook and Twitter.
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