Uplift is an invitation to change the conversation about domestic and sexual violence in our state. Domestic and sexual violence is preventable and we all can play a part in preventing violence from hurting Vermonters. At the Vermont Network, we believe in a Vermont where all people thrive. We can see a future where instead of focusing all of our efforts on reacting to the harm caused by violence, we prevent harmful behavior to begin with. And when harm does happen, we focus on repair and healing.

We know that now, more than ever, it is essential that we tackle the problems of domestic and sexual violence in our communities. The pandemic has demonstrated how domestic and sexual violence are exacerbated by the struggles that we all face together. We won’t solve these problems alone – we’ll need everyone together to change how our communities think about, respond to and perpetuate violence.

As Uplift launched over the past year we heard from many people who wanted to be a part of this conversation, but didn’t know how to begin or what to say. Many expressed fear that they would say the wrong thing or make things worse. We heard you and are cooking up some great resources to support these critical conversations. Tell us how you are already showing up to Uplift your communities and how we can best support you in showing up for that work. You can share with us by filling out the quick survey below:

This work is not possible without the strength of our community. Thank you for showing up and being a part of this transformative work with us. Together we can transform how we think about violence and how we talk about preventing it.

Together we can Uplift Vermont!

Jessica Barquist

Director of Policy & Organizing