About the Conference

Since 2020, domestic violence has increased by 8.1%, and Mi Centro receives 15-17 calls and 3-7 crisis walk-ins  per week for victim of crime services, with 60% women and children, 30% men, and 10% elders affected. Latino families and individuals affected by crime face misinformation and discrimination due to their vulnerability, highlighting a lack of culturally informed trauma education and prevention efforts in the community and workforce. Mi Centro aims to build relationships between law enforcement, first responders, and social services to better serve the victim of crime survivors.

View Our Conference Sponsorship Letter

About our Keynote Speaker

Dr.Carolyn West

International Speaker | Filmmaker | Author | Domestic Violence Expert | Cultural Sensitivity Trainer & Expert Witness

Dr.Carlolyn West in an international speaker, filmmaker, author, domestic violence expert, cultural sensitivity trainer and expert witness. Her purpose is to equip professionals with the skills to provide culturally sensitive and responsive services.

She has traveled internationally to consult, lecture, and deliver training seminars on topics related to intimate partner violence and sexual assault. Dr. West creates inspirational materials to empower survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault to embark on their personal journey of healing. In particular, her research and clinical expertise focus on experiences of gender-based violence in the lives of African American Women

Meet Out MC Speaker

Anabel Quintero

Dynamic DEI leader | Bestselling author |Storytelling & Cultural Wellness Coach

Workshops

The Impacts And Dynamics of Domestic Violence

This workshop will take a deep dive into the dynamics of domestic violence and discuss how domestic violence impacts all areas of a survivor’s responses when making decisions about their ability to leave a relationship. This informative session will be led by Amy McIntyre, Bilingual Victim Services Supervisor at Crystal Judson Family Justice Center.

Mental Health in the Latinx Community: Trauma-Informed Care

Mental health stigma remains a significant challenge within the Latinx community, leading many individuals to go undiagnosed. In an effort to address this issue, this workshop will focus on common diagnoses and strategies for first responders and domestic violence advocates to support Latinx families. By approaching these situations with trauma-informed principles, we can establish a foundation of trust, compassion, and inclusivity, ultimately fostering a sense of belonging within the community. This session will be led by  

Veronica Garcia, LMFTA: Collective Minds Therapy, PLLC and Jessica Infante-Castro, LMFT: Columbia Basin Family Therapy, LLC 

Understanding Sexual Assault with Special Considerations in the Latinx Community

The workshop will deliver comprehensive information to the audience regarding the topic of sexual assault and its relevance in the context of interpersonal violence.  This workshop will help first responders better understand the sometimes-counterintuitive responses from victims and feel more confident in their response.  Additionally,  this workshop will provide an added perspective into dynamics that can occur when sexual assault occurs within the Latinx community.  This workshop will be led by Stephanie Sacks and Yaritza Rodiguez from Rebuilding Hope- The Sexual Assault Center for Pierce County.

The Intersection of Domestic Violence, Trauma, Addiction and Mental Health

This workshop will provide insight into the intersection of domestic violence, trauma, addiction and mental health. The session will provide a deeper dive into how or why particular behaviors in a DV situation may show up specifically on scene to which first responders and law enforcement may be called. The ideas of of trauma informed care, deep listening and compassionate curiosity will be explored. The workshop will offer a general overview of basic concepts helpful in service to the idea that safety belongs to everyone. This workshop will be led by Rashaun Renggli, LMFT Mental Health Program Manager and Nyn Grey Advocate and Community Educator of The DOVE Project.

Responding to Indigenous Peoples Domestic Violence

This workshop will present valuable information to the audience on how Native populations in Washington State navigate and address domestic violence from a culturally sensitive perspective. It will cover the unique challenges and considerations involved in assisting Native populations who may encounter domestic violence situations, with a focus on promoting cultural competence and providing effective support. Participants will gain insights and practical tools to better understand and respond to the needs of Native individuals and communities experiencing domestic violence. The Workshop will be led by Eben Card PTH Program Coordinator from PathWays to Healing Program through Cowlitz Indian Tribe.

Child Abuse

The workshop will provide in-depth insights into the established protocols followed in Pierce County for conducting child abuse investigations, forensic interviews, and medical examinations. This comprehensive training will cover the best practices, guidelines, and procedures related to these critical aspects of child abuse cases. Participants will have the opportunity to enhance their knowledge and understanding of the protocols and procedures involved in effectively responding to cases of suspected child abuse in a professional and informed manner. The workshop will be ledby Lindsay Finney, MSW. LICSW, Mental health clinician- social worker at Mary Bridge Pediatric Care Continuum – Manager of Children’s Advocacy Center of Pierce County. 

Case Study

During this workshop, attendees will receive a detailed presentation on a domestic violence case, including a comprehensive overview of the investigative process, case preparation, courtroom procedures, and the final outcome. This session will provide valuable insights into the multifaceted aspects of handling domestic violence cases, with a focus on professional practices, legal considerations, and successful case resolution. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of the complexities involved in managing domestic violence cases and the critical steps taken to bring them to court, while also exploring the outcome and lessons learned from the case. The workshop will be led by Detective William Muse from the Tacoma Police Department

Dates & Times

May 31st. (8:00 am - 4:00 pm)
June 1st. (8:00 am - 4:00 pm)
June 2nd. (8:00 am - 2:00 pm)

Location

Courtyard By Marriott Tacoma Downtown
1515 Commerce St, Tacoma, WA 98402

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Our Sponsors

GOLD

Contact us at

dvassistance@micentrowa.org

or give us a call at:
(253) 572-7717