San Antonio Stars Join Forces to Fight Domestic Violence
In an inspiring move, Singer Gloria Estefan and actress Paulina Chávez have come together to shine a light on the often-hidden issue of domestic violence through a new public service announcement. Their animation titled “Between Amigas: Introducing the WomensLaw Email Hotline” aims to encourage anyone facing domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking to take advantage of vital legal resources.
A Voice for the Vulnerable
The animated PSA features a heartfelt interaction between two women, where one empowers the other to reach out for help via the WomensLaw Email Hotline. This free and anonymous hotline provides legal information in both English and Spanish, making it accessible for a broader audience. The hotline is a crucial resource for individuals seeking guidance on pressing issues related to intimate partner violence.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), startling statistics reveal that one in four women and one in seven men will experience physical violence from an intimate partner in their lifetime. These numbers are even higher within marginalized groups, especially for Latinas. Hence, the collaboration between Estefan and Chávez becomes even more important in addressing these alarming rates.
A Cause Close to the Heart
Gloria Estefan has long been a champion for social justice and is deeply passionate about combating gender-based violence. She expressed her pride in this initiative, saying, “As someone who is a fierce advocate against gender-based violence, this cause is very personal to me. I am proud to be helping Latinas get the help they need and to be supporting the important work of Esperanza United and the National Network to End Domestic Violence (NNEDV).” Her activism is not just a fleeting endeavor; it reflects her commitment to empowering other women to seek the assistance they deserve.
Meanwhile, Paulina Chávez has been making waves in the entertainment industry since her early days in the theater at Sky Harbour Elementary School in San Antonio. Born in El Paso and raised in San Antonio, she has gained recognition for her acting talents, appearing in popular Netflix and Lifetime productions. She is also part of the cast in the upcoming series “Landman,” set to premiere later this month on Paramount+. Chávez’s rise to fame serves as a reminder of the power of representation and the importance of using one’s platform for good.
Support from Advocacy Groups
The collaborative effort doesn’t stop with these two talented women. Estefan and Chávez partnered with significant advocacy organizations, Esperanza United and NNEDV, to amplify their message. Funding comes from several federal entities, including the Office for Victims of Crime and the U.S. Department of Justice. This collective effort ensures that resources are available and accessible for those in need.
As domestic violence remains a pervasive issue in our society, the message from Estefan and Chávez is clear: Help is available, and there’s no shame in reaching out. With tools like the WomensLaw Email Hotline, those affected can receive the information necessary to navigate the often-overwhelming legal landscape surrounding their situations.
Why This Matters
Events like this PSA serve as a reminder of the impact individuals can have when they come together for a cause. It’s essential to break the silence surrounding domestic violence and create a world where everyone feels safe. Estefan and Chávez not only lend their voices but also their experiences growing up in San Antonio, a city that nurtured their talents and dreams in the first place.
As residents and supporters rally behind this initiative, they pave the way for a brighter and safer future. So remember, if you’re ever in need of information or support regarding domestic violence, don’t hesitate to reach out. There are resources out there, and often, a helping hand is just an email away.
