Acting Women’s Advocate Madeline Bermúdez Sanabria
By THE STAR STAFF
During the remainder of November, the Office of the Women’s Advocate (OPM in Spanish) will organize a variety of activities across multiple municipalities in Puerto Rico aimed at educating the public on the elimination of violence against women in all its manifestations.
These efforts, unveiled on Thursday by acting Women’s Advocate Madeline Bermúdez Sanabria, will be spearheaded by a group of specialists from the OPM’s Education Division, who will provide information and educational sessions on topics including: crisis intervention in violent situations, Law 59, sexual harassment, empowerment, biopsychosocial and legal dimensions of domestic violence, Law 217, dating violence, cyber violence, self-esteem and self-care, sexual assault and dating violence, indicators of gender violence, and the intersection of mental health and domestic violence within the LGBTTQI+ community, among others.
The forums are set to take place in San Juan, Ciales, Caguas, Ponce, Trujillo Alto, Cidra, Arecibo, Yauco, Aguadilla, Barceloneta, Hormigueros, Vega Baja, Caguas, Orocovis, Río Grande, Carolina, Salinas, Santa Isabel, Aguada, and Guaynabo.
“The work and dedication for the safety and rights of women in our office remains unwavering,” Bermúdez Sanabria stated. “On the contrary, we are continuously amplifying our efforts in both the public and private spheres to achieve our goal of educating, raising awareness, and enforcing existing laws to protect women.”
Alongside these educational sessions, the OPM also provides legal advocacy for individuals who seek judicial remedies concerning domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, and dating violence.
Additionally, there is a complimentary and confidential 24-hour service line, 787-722-2977, available for victims or their relatives to obtain assistance and support regarding their concerns.
“A timely call can be life-saving,” the official remarked. “We are here for all women, their family members, and victims. They are not alone.”
