Last week, the Department of Justice came together to commemorate the recognition of October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month.  We were fortunate to hear from a variety of speakers, including Department leaders Attorney General Eric Holder, Deputy Attorney General David W. Ogden, and Associate Attorney General Tom Perrelli.

We were also joined by a number of representatives from organizations that work to end domestic violence and brave survivors of domestic violence, who generously shared their stories. This week, we’ll be sharing their stories with you.

First, meet Rosie Hidalgo, the Public Policy Director of Casa de Esperanza. Casa de Esperanza is a Latina organization founded in 1982 that works both locally and nationally to support families, end domestic violence, and increase access to effective services for Latinos across the country.

In her remarks, Rosie discusses the role her organization has played in ending domestic violence, the challenges Casa de Esperanza faces, and the ways the Violence Against Women Act has made a difference in the lives of Latinas.

Learn more about Casa de Esperanza at http://www.casadeesperanza.org/