Bergenfield, NJ – February 28, 2025 – Last night, the Borough of Bergenfield, in partnership with the Bergenfield Mayor’s Wellness Committee, Bergenfield Stigma Free Committee, and the Bergenfield Public Library, hosted its inaugural Domestic Violence Symposium. The event, which featured a powerful panel discussion, aimed to raise awareness and provide education on the critical issue of domestic violence. Panelists included domestic violence survivor Danielle Sharples, Lillian Corcoran, CEO of the Women's Rights Information Center, Allison Bressler, Co-Founder of A Partnership for Change, Verd Adoni, Bergen County Assistant Prosecutor, and William Duran, Bergenfield Police Captain and Domestic Violence Liaison.
The symposium also included a musical contribution by Andrew “Ace” Greenspan, a Stigma Free and Autism Advocate, who added an emotional and uplifting element to the event.
The discussion focused on various aspects of domestic violence, including how to recognize the signs, available resources, and ways to support victims. In addition to sharing personal experiences and offering professional insights, panelists engaged in a meaningful dialogue with the audience, answering questions and providing advice.
Domestic Violence in New Jersey and Bergen County: A Growing Concern
Domestic violence continues to be a serious issue across New Jersey. According to the New Jersey Coalition to End Domestic Violence, there were over 65,000 reported cases of domestic violence in the state in 2021. In Bergen County, there were over 6,000 incidents reported in the same year, emphasizing the need for community action and education on this issue.
Mayor Arvin Amatorio expressed his support for the symposium and its importance in the fight against domestic violence.
“This event is a crucial opportunity for education and awareness, not just for those who are currently experiencing abuse, but for the entire community,” said Mayor Amatorio. “We need to equip bystanders, families, and children with the knowledge to identify the signs of domestic violence and provide the support needed to break the cycle. Domestic violence should never be tolerated, and it’s essential that we create safe spaces for those affected to seek help.”
Councilmember Matthew Seymour of New Milford, a longtime advocate for domestic violence awareness and education, also attended the event and shared his thoughts on the importance of these types of symposiums.
"Starting in 2019, we launched this program as the first of its kind in both the county and the state. Since then, it has grown to become one of the largest programs of its kind in New Jersey," said Councilman Seymour. "The increasing interest and involvement from communities across Bergen County has been truly inspiring. Education is essential—not only for those directly affected by domestic violence, but also for the families who support them and the children who need to understand what healthy relationships look like. We must work to ensure that future generations break the cycle of abuse."
The evening’s discussion underscored the importance of continuing to provide resources and education to help both victims and the broader community understand the impact of domestic violence.
“We can’t break the cycle of abuse without a collective effort,” Mayor Amatorio emphasized. “Tonight’s event is just the beginning. We will continue to support initiatives like this to ensure that Bergenfield is a place where everyone feels safe and supported.”
Councilman Seymour echoed this sentiment, stressing that continued community involvement is critical to creating lasting change.
“A Symposium like this about fostering open conversations and breaking down the barriers that often prevent victims from seeking help,” said Councilman Seymour. “By coming together as a community and educating ourselves, we can make a real difference in the lives of those affected by domestic violence.”
The Borough of Bergenfield, alongside the Stigma Free Committee, remains committed to hosting events like this and continuing efforts to support those impacted by domestic violence.
For more information about resources for victims of domestic violence, please visit the Bergenfield Police Department's website or contact the Women’s Rights Information Center.
