This year’s Summit will focus on developing a greater understanding of the complex dynamics impacting those living with domestic violence.  The Summit will begin with an interactive exercise led by Judges Jeffrey Kremers and Marshall Murray, followed by an exploration of intersectionality and the trauma response to domestic violence with Dana Pellebon (Executive Director, RCC Sexual Violence Resource Center). Participants will learn directly from survivors of domestic abuse to end the first day.

The second day focuses on collaboration as a best practice response to domestic violence.  The Black and Brown Womyn’s Power Coalition will discuss interdisciplinary relationships highlighting best practices for co-advocacy with culturally specific victim service providers, how organizations provide trauma and culturally-informed services to the most marginalized victims across the state, and the resources offered through the Hmong Family Strengthening Helpline.  Following this, participants will learn about Milwaukee’s DV High Risk Team model using a case study to examine lessons learned about the collaborative response. 

Safe At Home, Wisconsin’s Address Confidentiality Program, offers those who fear for their physical safety with a legal substitute address that can be used as part of a comprehensive safety plan. Attendees will learn about the program and best practices for their interaction with participants.  After lunch, which will be provided at the venue (allowing for networking!) The National Clearinghouse on Abuse in Later Life (NCALL) will present on the best practices for responding to domestic violence within the elder community, including both investigation tips and connections to appropriate services.  Day 2 will end with a practical session regarding documentation in domestic violence cases, using trauma-informed concepts to avoid language pitfalls and raising awareness of the many ways the language we use in reports and elsewhere impacts victims of domestic violence.