The Butterfly Release for Peace, an inspiring occasion dedicated to supporting survivors and victims of domestic and sexual abuse, took place Wednesday at Harmony Gardens in Saylorsburg.

Organized by Safe Monroe, the 15th edition of the annual event drew numerous survivors and allies, creating a space for unity and healing.

Attendees participated in the symbolic act of releasing live butterflies into the air, a metaphor representing transformation and personal growth. Each butterfly released signified the hope and freedom that comes with recovery from trauma, reflecting the mission of Safe Monroe, a nonprofit.

The event not only provided a moment of solidarity but also raised awareness about the challenges faced by survivors of abuse.

Special speaker

Safe Monroe, according to Executive Director Lauren Peterson, appreciated having abuse survivor Ashley speak at the butterfly release in Saylorsburg.

“It’s important now more than ever for us to be able to stand together as a community and say, we’re not going tolerate this here, we’re going to support survivors,” Peterson said. “We’re going to hold abusers accountable. And that is where we’re going to start tonight.”

Safe Monroe, formerly Women’s Resources of Monroe County, says its mission is to provide a safe and caring environment that encourages healing and empowerment for anyone whose life has been affected by domestic and sexual abuse. The agency strives to engage the community through awareness, advocacy and prevention.

Ashley, a client of Safe Monroe, shared her story with the attendees.

“I thought today I would speak from my heart,” she said, opting to not use the speech she had prepared. “I have lived my life as a survivor. I had the courage and the voice to share my story, and it gave me the strength to get through it.

“It’s led me to amazing places. I got to speak at the White House about my story. I’ve gotten to speak on campus, at events, I’ve gotten to work with Safe Monroe, so many times, and honestly, the bond I’ve created with them has just been the most meaningful thing I’ve ever had and happened in my life.”

Ashley also talked about the significance and symbolism of the release event.

“I wanted to touch upon the butterflies, their hope, transition, transformation,” she said. “It’s freeing, it’s a new beginning, and I really feel like my life changed the moment I started to really share what happened to me, and I’m very fortunate for it. I wouldn’t be anywhere that I would be now without the help of Safe Monroe and my counselor. …

“The only advice I could give is never let anyone dim your light, never let anyone silence you. Your story is so loud, your story might be the ignition to someone else’s story, so always, always speak what you’ve been sent through, gone through, just try to find some healing in it.”

Ashley thanked everyone who attend the release at Harmony Gardens, which was hosted by Lois and Kent Heckman. Live music was generously provided by Marti and Dave Lantz.

Second release

Encouraging community members to show their support, Safe Monroe will be hosting a second butterfly release this year, which will be held on Tuesday from 5:30-6:30 p.m. at the Weiler Abrasives campus in Cresco.

Safe Monroe, formerly Women’s Resources of Monroe County, has been operating for more than four decades supporting individuals affected by domestic abuse and sexual violence.

For more information about the organization, visit www.safemonroe.org/.