Jackson, Mich. (WKHM) — The fourth annual Jackson Summit to Reduce Violence took place throughout the American 1 Event Center on Wednesday, with the event’s theme this year being “Domestic Violence: Awareness, Access, and Action.” After an introduction from Jackson Mayor Daniel Mahoney, keynote speaker Tanesha Ash-Shakoor, J.D. gave her speech centered around her personal experiences as a survivor of domestic abuse. Ash-Shakoor told WKHM that it is crucial that people are aware that domestic abuse can take on many forms, and is often not simply limited to physical violence.

She also gave her advice on how people who know someone going through domestic abuse in a relationship can put themselves in the best possible position to help that individual.

Following the keynote speech, attendees took part in breakout sessions that focused on different aspects of domestic abuse and the support that is available to victims. Law enforcement officials from Jackson area jurisdictions attended the Summit, including Jackson County Sheriff Gary Schuette, who emphasized the importance of local law enforcement to collaborate with the resource providers at the event on how they can make sure domestic violence victims get what they need.

The Summit to Reduce Violence is organized by the Jackson County Prosecutor’s Office, the City of Jackson, the Jackson Juneteenth Committee, the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Jackson Public Schools, and Aware Shelter.