| Celebrating CasaLuz’s 9th Anniversary! On October 1st, we celebrated a milestone and honored this organization’s courage, resilience, and tireless work. We are successful today not just because of the work we do but also because of the incredible team behind this organization, its staff, the board of directors, the Department of Justice (Office for Victims of Crime, Office on Violence Against Women), the State of TN, Esperanza United, the foundations, donors, partners, and supporters who are the heart and soul of CasaLuz. Their dedication, passion, and refusal to be silenced have made us who we are today. From its humble beginnings, CasaLuz has been on a mission to serve those who need it most. We have faced countless challenges along the way, but as we stand here today, we celebrate the fact that we have thrived against all the odds. Why? Because we dared. We dared to speak up when others remained silent. We dared to fight for justice when the fight was not easy. Most of all, we dared to provide care and compassion to vulnerable Hispanic/Immigrant victims of domestic violence, sexual abuse, and other violent crimes when others looked away. Today, we remember and honor the victims we have served — those whose stories were silenced by violence, those who face discrimination and isolation. We recognize the strength it took for them to seek help, and we are here to reaffirm our commitment to supporting every single one of them. But let us also reflect on the reality we face serving vulnerable victims is not a task without challenges. In a world that sometimes turns a blind eye to those who suffer in silence, we knew the fight would be hard. Our resources have often been stretched thin, and support from our local community has not always been easy to come by. Yet here we are, because of the determination of the CasaLuz’s team, and people who stood by our side and refused to give up. When doors were shut, we knocked harder. When voices were silenced, we spoke louder. We reported the discrimination, even when it was inconvenient because that’s what justice demands. And we will continue to report it. We will continue to expose injustice wherever it exists because no victim should be denied the dignity, respect, or safety they deserve. Let’s celebrate our achievements. Let’s celebrate the lives we have changed and the hope we have restored. But let’s also recognize that this is only the beginning. The work ahead of us is as important as ever. There are still voices waiting to be heard, victims who need our help, and injustices to confront. Together we have navigated through moments of doubt, uncertainty, and adversity. Together, we have turned every challenge into an opportunity to rise higher, to dig deeper, and to push further. Together, we will continue to break barriers, shatter silence, and bring light to the darkest of places. Together, we will keep moving forward, undeterred by the challenges in our path, inspired by the strength of the victims we serve, and motivated by our unwavering commitment to justice. As we look toward the future, let’s remember: We are not alone. Each of you has played a part in this journey. Your support has been our lifeline. Your belief in our mission has fueled our fire. And because of you, we will continue to thrive, continue to serve, and continue to dare — to dare to make the world a better place for the victims who need us. Thank you for being part of this incredible journey. Let’s celebrate what we have achieved, and let’s commit to even greater success in the years ahead. Happy Anniversary, CasaLuz! Here’s to many more years of courage, compassion, and justice. |
