Remembering domestic violence victims in SC
COLUMBIA, S.C. (WJBF) — October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and on Tuesday, the 25th Annual Silent Witness ceremony was held at the South Carolina State Capitol to remember those who lost their lives in 2022.
Family members placed 49 life-size silhouettes at the steps of the capitol as a bell was rung to represent the 37 women and 12 men whose lives were lose due to domestic violence last year. A 50th silhouette was placed to represent those who have died who are not yet known.
Among those that were honored at the ceremony include 32-year-old Brandi Bearden from Edgefield County, 25-year-old Jazzmyne Green and 28-year-old Kia Riley both of Lexington County, and 48-year-old Frelena Amous from Orangeburg County.
“This is a sad and solemn occasion to commemorate the lives that were lost in the past year to domestic violence,” said Wilson.
The ceremony is held each year at the state capitol.