OKLAHOMA CITY –
Survivors of domestic violence in Oklahoma are turning their stories into a path forward for others.
On Oct. 14, Skydance Bridge at Scissortail Park in Oklahoma City will shine purple as survivors share their testimony and honor those who lost their lives. Eighty-seven pairs of shoes will line the park, each pair representing an Oklahoman killed by domestic violence in one year, according to the state’s latest domestic violence fatality report.
“The violence and the darkness is not your story,” Natalie Seiden, a domestic violence survivor for Voices OKC, said.
The night isn’t only about remembering those who were killed. It is also about giving survivors a voice.
“You feel alone. You are secluded. It’s part of the abuse,” Seiden said. “We want to create a space for the survivors and for those who have lost a loved one.”
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The event is called Testimony Trail, and Voices OKC is the advocacy group behind it.
Skydance Bridge will shine purple along the trail, and survivors will share their own stories, hoping someone still living through abuse will see a way out.
“Where you’re at and what you’re going through is dark and is hard. I remember going through it and not knowing where to start,” Seiden said.
The event starts at 6:30 p.m., and it is followed by a candlelight walk at 7 p.m. Registration is not required.
Voices OKC said to meet at the south garden trellis, which is located on the southeast side of the park near Union Station.
