Last week, Assemblyman Dave McDonough (R,C,I-Merrick), a member of the Nassau County Executive’s Task Force on Family Violence, joined fellow taskforce members, along with representatives from Long Island University’s (LIU) Post Social Work Department, and the School of Health Professions and Nursing for the “Many Faces of Family Violence Conference.” The conference addressed the many different forms of violence which can affect individuals and families and included a keynote speech by Evan Robbins, Founder of Breaking the Chain Through Education.

“Violence and abuse may not always be as visible as a bruise on the arm, and can affect all members of society, regardless of economic class or social standing. It’s also important to remember that domestic violence comes in all forms, be it physical or emotional, and it can be a tremendous stressor on a family or individual,” said McDonough. “With that in mind, the most important thing we can do is educate those in authority roles, be they teachers, pastors, police or counselors, to look out for the signs of violence and abuse. Taking steps to prevent violence or help those in need receive the support they deserve is absolutely critical. Nassau County and LIU provide tremendous resources to help those who may be victims of domestic violence and abuse, and the conference featured a wide array of professionals to help improve and connect those on the front lines. County Executive Mangano and the staff at LIU put together an outstanding program that I believe will truly help our community and provide top-notch resources for those in need.”

The Nassau County Executive’s Task Force on Family Violence works to ensure victim safety and self-determination, abuser accountability and system responsibility in all forms of family violence through collaboration, education, and coordinated community response and system change.