FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

DENVER, CO / WASHINGTON, D.C. -- The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV) announced today that Jennie Willoughby will be a keynote speaker of Voices Rising, NCADV’s 17th biennial national domestic violence conference this September. Ms. Willoughby is a domestic violence survivor and has been outspoken about her abuser, Rob Porter, who until February was employed at the White House and protected by high-ranking officials who knew about Porter’s abuse of Willoughby and his other ex-wife, Colbie Holderness.

Ms. Willoughby will speak to over 500 attendees in Providence on September 24th about her experiences as a survivor and will also be addressing how abusive men in power often use that power to continue controlling their victim(s). “In these unusual times and as a survivor, Ms. Willoughby’s experience has shone a bright light on domestic violence, and how abuse of power, privilege and victim blaming are still issues for victims when they tell their story.  All victims, no matter their station, have a right to be believed and supported and be afforded justice. Ms. Willoughby will be one of many who will bring all survivor voices to Voices Rising conference and we are thrilled to have her voice!” In addition to keynoting the conference, Ms. Willoughby will also participate on a panel of survivors during a plenary session. The #SurvivorSpeaks Panel will include other domestic violence survivors and feature their voices alongside Ms. Willoughby’s.

Voices Rising marks the 17th national domestic violence conference NCADV has hosted over the past 35 years and is known for its cutting-edge content and survivor-centric focus. The 2018 conference will focus on how advocates practically do the work in the domestic violence field. The intention is to delve deeper into the causes of violence and its impact and effect on individuals, communities and our nation. Voices Rising will also highlight how constituents can continue to use their voices to catalyze change.

About The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence

The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV) is the voice of victims and survivors and works as the catalyst for changing society to have zero tolerance for domestic violence. NCADV does this by affecting public policy, increasing understanding of the impact of domestic violence, and providing programs and education that drive change. For more information about NCADV’s biennial national domestic violence conference, visit www.ncadv.org/conference. For more information about NCADV, visit www.ncadv.org.

About Jennie Willoughby

Jennie Willoughby is a former school teacher whose passion is the resiliency of the human spirit. Based out of Washington DC and New York, Jennie speaks on the benefits of mindfulness, compassion, and owning your choices to create an intentional life.  She writes at www.bornebackceaselessly.com and has been published in the Washington Post, Time magazine, Elephant Journal, and Rebelle Society. Follow her on Facebook, Twitter, & Instagram.

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