HCC Abuse Awareness Program transforms students' lives
Feb 1, 2017
Houston Community College graduate Meyoshi Green is a fighter. Throughout her life, she experienced different types of abuse—from family, friends, and boyfriends—all people she thought she could trust. Over the years, Green felt she had no option but to keep quiet. In keeping silent she developed a “hidden anger”- acted out in school and was aggressive towards everyone she encountered.
One day, her instructor encouraged Green to speak with an HCC Counselor.
“My counselor Ayesha Farr was compassionate. She made me feel like a victor instead of a victim,” said Green.
Armed with courage and a new voice, Green was the guest speaker at the 2015 Northeast College Purple Heart Domestic Violence Month program. Laura Rea a fellow HCC student, was in the audience.
“I was scared and lost. I didn’t know what to do or who to talk to,” said Rea, who like Green, suffered years of domestic violence by a loved one. “Meyoshi’s story was a wake-up call. I knew I didn’t want to end up in a casket.”
Fast forward one year later and the 2016 Purple Heart event, where both women were brought together again through HCC Counselor Ayesha Farr.
Farr is one of several HCC counselors and faculty across the district who develops events to raise awareness related to issues of Intimate Partner Violence, Stalking and Sexual Assault.
“Stories like Meyoshi and Laura’s make my job as a counselor worth it. I’m happy to see the impact these programs make and that I am able to help victims become victors,” said Farr.
Farr wants students to know that HCC counselors are here to help anytime and provide additional resources.
“Talking meant I was victim and I didn’t want to be a victim,” said Green. “Now, I have found my voice and want to use it to help other people.” Green is a 2016 graduate of HCC and a member of the school’s Title IX Task Force.
Abuse is not love. If you are in an unhealthy relationship and need help, please contact an HCC Counselor or the Office of Institutional Equity.