New York Author Adds Voice to Domestic Violence Awareness Month

Oct. 11, 2011 - PRLog -- QUEENS, New York (October 3, 2011)— October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and New York will be raising awareness and connecting New Yorkers one light at a time with its “Shine the Light on Domestic Violence” campaign. For Queens author Angelica Harris, this is one more opportunity to share her story and influence change.

“Sharing my personal experiences with domestic violence has unleashed my voice so that I might help others dealing with similar circumstances,” said Harris, whose memoir on the subject—Living With Rage: A Quest for Solace—will be published in December 2011 by Writers of the Round Table Press. “There’s still a level of shame and secrecy surrounding these issues, and victims need to know that help exists. They are not alone.”

As a teenager in Queens in the 1970s, Harris bore two secrets: the beatings of a mother swiftly descending into mental illness, and her uncle’s yearlong sexual abuse. The burden of silence continued as she later hid her rape and abortion. Harris sought relief through literature, theater and hard work, but she couldn’t eradicate her rage or sense of injustice. In Living With Rage, Harris candidly tells the story of a life haunted by violence but that also shimmers with all the complexities of love.

“Writing this book was not easy,” Harris said. “There were times I closed my laptop, went for a walk, and thought, ‘I can’t do this.’ But writing is healing. Telling our stories is healing. That’s the message I want to get across.”

For the month of October, New York skyscrapers, bridges, storefronts and shopping centers in will be illuminated with purple lights, and local leaders, such as Harris, are stepping out to do their part. This is the fourth year the New York State Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence has helped turn the state purple, connecting citizens with programs, government, business and nonprofits and take one step to make communities safer. Harris hopes the atmosphere of support will encourage even one person to take the difficult but rewarding steps toward change.

“I have seen so many people—including myself—rebuild their lives after taking a stand against their abuser,” said Harris. “I hope that as we come together to spread awareness of domestic violence, individuals will realize that there are resources out there for them.”

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About Angelica Harris

Angelica Harris is a successful author, entrepreneur, advocate and speaker. Her journey to disempower her rage began in 2010 with the writing of her memoir, Living With Rage: A Quest for Solace. She is now using her story to build a community of conquerors that will fight domestic violence and help others—and one another—find healing. Learn more about her books, programs and initiatives at http://www.angelicaharris.com, or contact erin@roundtablecompanies.com to schedule an interview or speaking engagement.