Program Description
Event Details
The topic of child abuse is a solemn and serious one, but that is all the more reason we should not let it render us paralyzed, or so despairing that we avert our gaze. Join local author and educator Letitia Gottashe for a courageous and empowering series of readings from her memoir I Ain't Done Yet!, a deeply personal collection of essays on survivorship, resilience, and kindness. A panel of speakers will join Ms. Gottashe to lead an in-depth discussion on recognizing abuse, understanding victim behaviors, and accessing community resources for healing.
Please note that this event will address the topics of child abuse, including sexual abuse. It is intended to be a safe and sympathetic space for all but may, by its nature, be upsetting for some individuals.
PLEASE NOTE: This is a hybrid program. You may attend this program either in-person at the library or online using your own device. All registrants will receive a Zoom link approximately one hour prior to the start of the program.
About the panelists
Letitia Gottashe, an author, child and family advocate, community organizer, and educator, is a proud Native New Yorker and the granddaughter of Caribbean immigrants. She has dedicated 35 years to education, working in federally funded programs like Head Start and Title I, emphasizing parent and community engagement.
Theresa Hedrington-Garcia, CEO & Founder of Hearts Places Services, is a native of the Bronx, New York. As a parent, grandparent, and educator whose life has been touched by special needs, Theresa founded Hearts Place Services to fill a unique role in special education with neurodiversity approaches, facilitating professional development and team-building events focusing on advocacy in special needs, college, career, and work readiness, and curriculum enhancement.
Janelle Allbritton, who earned her master of public health degree from Loma Linda University, brings a unique perspective to the discussion. She lived and worked in Southeast Asia for four years after growing up in culturally diverse Southern California before moving to New York in 2009. Her current focus is on complex/childhood PTSD and its health effects, whether short- or long-term — including suicide prevention.
Maureen Curtis is a licensed master social worker with a masters in public health. As a Vice President of Safe Horizon, the nonprofit victim advocacy and services organization, she is responsible for developing and overseeing their Criminal Justice Programs. With a staff of more than 200 co-located in family court, criminal court, Family Justice Centers, and precinct locations citywide, she has worked for more than 35 years in victimization. She has extensive knowledge of criminal justice and victims' rights in the housing system.
Dr. Edward Stephens is a dedicated physician specializing in men’s mental health who has remained a psychiatrist throughout his career. Over the past 50 years, he has led initiatives alongside other professionals to address the health, education, and social challenges men and boys face. In his commitment to understanding all aspects of masculinity, he founded the Foundation For Male Studies, fostering a political and academic exploration of male issues. Dr. Stephens is also a life member of several prestigious associations, including the American Psychiatric Association and the American Medical Association.