Workshops

1.   Domestic Violence 101

Participants will define and explore the causes and dynamics of domestic violence. They will consider the short- and long-range effects of violence on victims, briefly examine the legal and social interventions that may be effective in stopping the violence, and explore ways we can recognize the signs of abuse and respond to victims in a positive and helpful manner.


Presenter : Lisa Lewis
Probation officer, Multnomah County
Adjunct faculty, Women's Studies Department


2.   The Effects of Violence on Children

In this workshop, participants will explore the short- and long range effects on children who live with violence, and learn to recognize the red flags that might signal the presence of violence in a child's life. We will also consider legal and social interventions that may be effective in helping children stay safe and heal.


Presenter: Emiko Goka-Dubose
Youth Coordinator, Bradley Angle House


3.   Dating Violence: Domestic Violence on College Campuses

This workshop will cover the dynamics and issues of working with survivors of domestic violence at an institution of higher education. We will discuss what a campus can do, should do, and is required to do. We will also explore what students, staff and faculty can do to organize around this important topic.


Presenter: Aimee Shattuck, MSW
Coordinator, PSU Women's Resource Center


4.   Silencing the Unheard: Cultural Perspectives and Domestic Violence within Hispanic Communities

This workshop will explore the myths and stereotypes about domestic violence in Hispanic communities. The focus will be on the characteristics of isolation in Hispanic communities, as well as the treatment of Hispanics by law enforcement with an emphasis on restraining orders.


Presenters: Cecilis Maciel, DVRC and Hillsboro Police Department and Toni Lopez, Director of restraining orders for the Hillsboro Police Dept.


5.   Legal Interventions

Participants will focus on what takes place in our legal system after the violence has occurred. Together we explore current Oregon law and the legal services available to victims of domestic violence and sexual assault within Multnomah County. This workshop is recommended for social workers and others interested in helping survivors of violence access and understand existing legal interventions and the processes involved.


Presenter: Andrew Lavin, Deputy District Attorney, Multnomah County


6.   Offender Accountability: Working to Keep Our Communities Safe

This workshop will focus on understanding current sex offender accountability practices in Oregon with specific emphasis on the Portland metro area. In addition, alternative accountability models used elsewhere in the US and in other countries will be introduced for consideration and discussion. Drawing on research findings, participants are encouraged to evaluate accountability practices for effectiveness and enhancement of community safety.


Presenter: Megan Carter, MS, MA, Doctoral Student, Child and Adult Intervention Services, Pacific University, School of Professional Psychology


7.  Sexual Assault 101

Presented by the Sexual Assault Resource Center (SARC, this workshop will offer a comprehensive look at the issue of sexual assault dynamics from an agency's perspective. We will illustrate the issue's prevalence with statistics, address common impacts on survivors, and examine common myths surrounding sexual assault. We will also provide information on how to support survivors along with a list of local resources.


Presenter: Cathy Robart, Interim Education Outreach Coordinator, SARC


8.   From Survivor to Thriver: Moving Beyond Trauma

This interactive workshop will consider what it takes to create an identity once one has successfully survived interpersonal violence (childhood trauma, rape, or domestic violence). Drawing on trauma, brain, and resiliency research findings, we will address what it is that fosters healing and facilitates moving beyond being defined by trauma. Topics will include examination of the role of support systems, altruism, spirituality and social activism in overcoming trauma.


Presenters: Cammie Hering, MA and Christina Cole, MST


9.   Oppression and Socialization: Media Portrayals of Domestic and Sexualized Violence

This workshop will examine the role of media in the portrayal and silencing of domestic and sexualized violence. Participants will use media analysis techniques to decipher various messages about domestic violence while exploring the role of media as a socializing agent of culture. Various examples will be provided.


Presenter: Jil M. Freeman, Faculty, Dept. of Communications, PSU


10.   In Her Shoes: Living with Domestic Violence

In Her Shoes is an interactive community awareness presentation that explores barriers to safety and self-suggiciency. This workshop will address the frequently asked question, "Why doesn't she leave?" In Her Shoes helps to strengthen individual and community advocacy skills in matters of domestic violence. Current or prospexctive social service providers and legal professionals should attend.


Presenter: Gabby Santos, Bradley-Angle House




Portland State College of Liberal Arts & Sciences: Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies | Home
Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies
Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies (WGSS) is an interdisciplinary program designed to foster students’ personal and intellectual development in the study of gender and sexuality within both local and global contexts; the intersectional analysis of race, gender, class, culture and disability; power, systems of privilege, and resistance; and the links between theoretical understandings of feminist/queer studies and community activism. A degree in WGSS prepares students for socially responsible community involvement and a broad range of careers in community agencies, not-for-profit organizations, and government agencies. Additionally, the WGSS program offers a foundation for graduate work in professional degree programs such as teaching, counseling, social work, legal studies, public health, business administration, and advocacy.