During the month of March, women's history month is celebrated - a time to remember women who served as “firsts” in creating walkways that today, many women, stand on.

Recently, I attended an event sponsored by Vera House (dedicated to helping victims of domestic violence and sexual assault) at a local resident's home and one thing was certain: ordinary women make history each and every day. Their courage will not be forgotten.

Silent panels, close to six feet tall, stood upright with various women's silhouettes and screamed for attention. At the top of each panel was The victim's name, age, words of remembrance authored by family members.

The panels' depicted women from the surrounding areas in central New York and invited the viewer to witness their story.

Donna, 27, was murdered by boyfriend; Wendy, a reporter, killed by an intimate. This year alone two new panels have been added.

College educated women who by no means were poor or illiterate, were instead held captive by their partners, who slowly create a shell of isolation around them.

A misconception occurs that educated, middle to upper class women are not subject to the violent tendencies of their spouse or significant others.

“It was her strong will that enabled her to hide her husband's abuse for several years,” was inscribed on the panel of Jill Russell Cahill, a former Skaneateles resident.

Giving a voice to women that cannot speak for themselves is a powerful tool to encourage change and empower those caught in a bad situation to seek out help. Many people may ponder, why didn't she leave sooner, how could this happen to multiple college educated women, all placed with supportive families?

Then, I spoke with a mother, whose young daughter had been sexually violated. She shared that the road to forgiveness included family support, therapy and by placing her trust in God.

Only through faith, could she move past the anger and find peace within the confines of her own and the daughter's heart.

It is not easy to step into the shoes of another heart burdened with loss of self or a loved one; so we are left with compassion and hope for a better tomorrow.

Around the world, at least 1 in 3 women will either be physically or sexually abused during her lifetime.

How to make a difference

€ Next time you witness a loved one in need, extend an act of kindness without expectation of gratitude.

€ Help change attitudes. Organize or wear a Vera House 2008 White Ribbon Campaign, which symbolizes a personal commitment to never support, commit or remain silent about abuse. Contact Vera House at 425-0818 or cbenton@verahouse.org for additional information about the campaign, slated for March 28 through April 6.

Laura Ponticello is a Skaneateles resident who authors real life stories and publishes Laura's List: Books for Women. She can be reached at laurasbooklist@aol.com