When a pivotal scene in a relationship education film showed Julio striking Mariana, every 9th grader in the room reacted with a loud, collective gasp. That shock was exactly what Victim Advocates Maigyn Luthe and Kelsey Wilson of Fayette Cares hoped for; proof that students were engaged, aware, and unwilling to normalize abuse. “That reaction matters,” said Luthe. “We never want young people to become numb to harmful behavior. When they respond with shock, it shows they recognize it’s wrong.”
In February, during Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, Luthe and Wilson led six interactive sessions at Fayette-Ware Comprehensive High School focused on recognizing healthy and unhealthy relationship behaviors, understanding consent, and knowing how to seek help safely.
The workshop featured a lively game of Jeopardy reviewing 10 signs of healthy and unhealthy relationships. Students were competitive, enthusiastic, and eager to rack up points for their teams. One young lady was so excited to answer a question she began scooting her desk forward in anticipation.
Following the film, students openly discussed what they observed. When asked if they recognized behaviors like Julio’s in real life, nearly every student nodded yes. Unfortunately, 1 in 3 teens in the U.S. will experience physical, sexual, or emotional abuse from a dating partner before they reach adulthood. “Education is prevention,” said Luthe. “If students can identify red flags early and know they deserve better, we are helping change the trajectory of their lives.”
In one class, a student bravely shared her own experience with an ex-boyfriend who displayed many of the unhealthy warning signs discussed in the workshop. She explained that she confided in her mother, who helped her end the relationship safely. Her story underscored the importance of trusted adults and open communication.
Fayette Cares, now celebrating 40 years of service to the community, continues to prioritize prevention efforts alongside shelter and other life changing services for survivors of domestic violence, in addition to other critical programs for struggling families. To bring an awareness program to your school, church, or club, call (901) 465-3802 x 222 or email Advocate@fayettecares.org.
