Paonia joins One Billion Rising rally

Photo by Kathy Browning Amber McDaniel holds a sign expressing her desire to help heal the wounds of violence against women and girls. People gathered to show their solidarity during a global event on Valentine’s Day, One Billion Rising.One Billion Rising took place around the world on Valentine's Day. A quote on their website explained their purpose and sentiment.

"I refuse to watch as more than a billion women experience violence on the planet. I'm joining V-Day on 02.14.13 in a global strike to demand an end to the violence." One in three women on the planet is raped or beaten in her lifetime. That totals one billion women.

Spotting a posting on Facebook by Rand Kokernot about the One Billion Rising movement, Amber McDaniel found out the closest event was in Grand Junction. "I was bummed we found out about this so late, because we could have done something about this in Paonia."

Kokernot responded, "Well, four days is a life- time in Paonia. Let's make it happen."

So, the event on Valentine's Day indeed did happen in Poulos Park with music, dancing, Eve Ensler poetry read by McDaniel, shared memories by survivors of rape and violence and a ceremony to release those memories. Ensler is the founder of the movement.

In just four days, the word got out and numerous people practiced a dance that would be repeated around the world. McDaniel posted links to the video which taught participants the dance moves.

"Until people are aware of the problem it's never going to change," McDaniel said. "Now, hopefully, a lot of people are inspired to do something about it. We have our local group here that provides many resources for victims of violence. It's about raising awareness."

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