June 20, 2008

Standing up against domestic abuse

DECLARATION: An employee signs the pledge.

On June 11, a group of MGHers committed themselves to ending domestic violence, participating in an interfaith Father's Day service in the MGH Chapel. Co-hosted by the MGH Chaplaincy and MGH Men Against Abuse — an employee organization and committee of the MGH Domestic Violence Working Group dedicated to eliminating domestic violence in all forms — the service included readings, songs and prayers reflecting upon what it means to be a father. Participants were encouraged to teach their sons and daughters about healthy relationships and had an opportunity to sign a pledge promising never to commit, condone or remain silent about domestic violence.

For more information about Men Against Abuse, contact Lenny DeBenedictis, LICSW, of the Employee Assistance Program, at (617) 724-2206; Jim Heffernan, chief financial officer for the MGPO, at (617) 726-2684; or visit www2.massgeneral.org/menagainstabuse.