HYANNIS – A global advocate for human, civil, children and victim’s rights was the keynote speaker at the 16th annual Domestic Violence Awareness Month community breakfast on Friday.
William Kellibrew works closely with top leaders to address trauma, violence, abuse and neglect across multiple fields including local, state, and federal agencies.
Kellibrew has received a number of accolades from organizations across the country, including the Voice Award from SAMHSA and has been recognized by the White House as a “Champion of Change” in 2011.
Kellibrew is a child witness to violence survivor from age 10 when he witnessed the murders of his mother and brother.
“I’m just glad to be able to have that opportunity to be able to have meaning and purpose in life and I think that’s why I’m surviving today,” said Kellibrew.
The program included a speech from a survivor speaker and concluded with a candlelight ceremony in remembrance of homicide victims of domestic violence in Massachusetts this past year.
This year’s focus for the event was on children who witness violence.
Kellibrew said that throughout all of his travels across the country and world, Cape Cod is very special.
“What I have learned here is that there is so much humanity going on in this place, it’s just the safest place on Earth right now,” said Kellibrew.
The breakfast is an Independence House signature event offered to the public to inspire actions, educate the community and respond to the issues of domestic and sexual violence.
By JUSTIN SAUNDERS, CapeCod.com Newscenter