Exclusive: Jersey City, New Jersey – Hudson County’s pioneering rape-crisis support and prevention organization, Hudson Speaks Against Sexual Violence, was honored with a New Jersey State Assembly Citation by Assemblywoman Jessica Ramirez during the Teej Festival celebration, jointly hosted by Hudson Speaks, Women for Cause (WFC), and Nepali American and South Asian women in Jersey City. This recognition applauded Hudson Speaks for its critical efforts in supporting survivors of domestic and sexual violence throughout Hudson County, with a special focus on its culturally sensitive and language-specific initiatives.
The citation highlighted Hudson Speaks' Bolo Behen (Speak Sister) Project, a groundbreaking program that provides vital resources to the South Asian community. Assemblywoman Ramirez commended the organization’s dedication to addressing gender-based violence, particularly within communities where these issues are often stigmatized or overlooked.
The citation text reads:
“STATE HOUSE, TRENTON, N.J.
ASSEMBLY COMMENDATION
By Assemblywoman JESSICA RAMIREZ
WHEREAS, Assemblywoman Jessica Ramirez, as the duly elected representative of the 32nd Legislative District in the State Legislature, is pleased to honor and congratulate The Hudson S.P.E.A.K.S. Bolo Behen Project; and,
WHEREAS, the Hudson S.P.E.A.K.S. mission is to create safer communities centered on supporting healing for survivors of sexual violence; and,
WHEREAS, approximately one in five women experience sexual violence and one in four women experience domestic violence in their lifetime in the United States; and,
WHEREAS, Hudson S.P.E.A.K.S. provides crucial culturally-sensitive and language-specific resources to survivors of gender-based violence in the South Asian community through the Bolo Behen Initiative; and,
WHEREAS, Hudson S.P.E.A.K.S. jointly hosted the Teej Festival 2024 on August 31, 2024, which was enjoyed by all.”
The Teej Festival, traditionally a celebration of womanhood, took place on August 31, 2024, gathering over 200 Nepali and South Asian women and their families. The event served as a platform to discuss domestic and sexual violence, which are often taboo subjects within the South Asian American community. The day-long celebration merged cultural festivities with social advocacy, raising critical awareness on these issues.
During the festival, several speakers underscored the importance of collective action to safeguard the most vulnerable members of society—women and girls:
Dr. Bishnu Maya Pariyar, Program Director of Hudson Speaks, discussed the cultural barriers that survivors face and the need for trauma-informed care within the community.
Sarala Timalsina, President of Women for Cause (WFC), emphasized the role of women-led organizations in fostering safer environments for survivors.
Maria Elaine Evia, Crisis Coordinator at Hudson Speaks, outlined the services and resources available to survivors across Hudson County.
Mariel DiDato, Chief of Staff for Assemblywoman Jessica Ramirez, discussed legislative initiatives aimed at securing funding and legal protections for victims.
Parul Aneja Khemka, Chair of the South Asian American Democratic Caucus in NJ, called for greater community involvement in advocating for survivors’ rights.
The program was moderated by Ashika (Hira) Kandel, General Secretary of WFC. She stressed the need for continued community engagement to prevent violence.
The festival successfully combined cultural celebration with social advocacy, creating a space for open dialogue about domestic and sexual violence. Attendees left with a stronger understanding of the resources available to them and their families, while the event also bolstered collaboration between Hudson Speaks, WFC, and other local organizations.
This recognition from Assemblywoman Ramirez underscores the essential role that Hudson Speaks plays in empowering survivors and promoting safety and healing in Hudson County’s diverse communities.
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