On October 1, 2025, the University of Illinois Springfield’s Social Work Club partnered with Sojourn Shelter and Services, Inc. to host a “Silent Witness” exhibit in the Student Union. The display featured life-sized silhouettes representing victims of domestic violence, each bearing the real story of a life lost.
Sojourn Shelter, now marking its 50th year of service, is a central Illinois organization dedicated to supporting survivors of domestic violence and raising public awareness. The partnership with UIS allowed students to confront the realities of domestic violence through stories that were both powerful and deeply personal.
“It’s important for people to know about domestic violence,” said Kimberly Cuevas Martinez, Student President of the Social Work Club, explaining that the club serves as a campus contact for Sojourn.
One silhouette told the story of Summer Ellen, a 22-year-old woman killed by her estranged boyfriend in a murder-suicide at her workplace. For many students, the exhibit was both emotional and eye-opening.
Gargi, a UIS master’s student, reflected on one of the silhouettes, emphasizing that awareness must be inclusive.
“It is needed for everyone, not just women. Everyone needs it—men also,” she said.
A sign at the exhibit noted that 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men report experiencing physical violence by an intimate partner during their lifetime. Gargi added that awareness can help people recognize “small acts” that may escalate into more serious violence.
Ron Holman, Sojourn’s Director of Prevention and Outreach, highlighted the organization’s broad network of support for anyone affected by abuse.
“This isn’t just a shelter, it’s a full spectrum of help,” Holman said. “We offer a 24/7 hotline, court advocates, and counselors who are available just to talk. The typical stay is just under a month, but people can stay up to three months until they’re safe. That’s the primary goal.”
The Sojourn hotline (217-726-5200) offers immediate guidance, while additional resources can be found at help4dv.org.
Holman said he hopes the exhibit inspires compassion and vigilance.
“The more information people have, the more they know what to do,” he said. “That’s what it’s all about.”
The “Silent Witness” event reminded the UIS community that domestic violence can affect anyone, but help and hope are always available.
Photo caption:
A display by the UIS Social Work Club and Sojourn Shelter inside the Student Union raises awareness of domestic violence through the Silent Witness exhibit on October 1, 2025.
