Center for Family Justice Hosts 28th Annual Speaking of Women Event In Monroe

The Center for Family Justice presents Beverly Gooden at its 28th Annual Speaking of Women event at The Waterview in Monroe.

MONROE, CT — The Center for Family Justice will host its 28th Annual Speaking of Women event on Sept. 9, 2025, at The Waterview in Monroe, featuring award-winning activist and author Beverly Gooden as the keynote speaker. Gooden is known for creating the viral #WhyIStayed movement, which highlights the experiences of domestic violence survivors and challenges public perceptions of abuse.

Gooden gained national attention in 2014 when she launched the hashtag #WhyIStayed, sparking important conversations about victim-blaming and the complexities of abusive relationships. The campaign was widely recognized by TIME and Forbes as one of the most influential social change hashtags of the year. She also founded the Ella Mae Foundation, supporting women’s and children’s rights, and launched the Bolt Bag Project, which provides emergency escape bags for survivors fleeing abuse.

The event, presented by M&T Bank, carries the theme "Voices of Courage," aligning with Gooden’s mission to empower survivors and advocate for systemic change. Anna Zap of Star 99.9’s The Anna and Raven Show will return as master of ceremonies, and the event will honor Cindi Bigelow, President and CEO of Bigelow Tea, for her longstanding support of CFJ’s mission.

Funds raised at the luncheon support the Center for Family Justice’s free and confidential services for those affected by domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse in Bridgeport, Easton, Fairfield, Monroe, Stratford, and Trumbull.

Tickets are available here. For more information, visit www.centerforfamilyjustice.org or call (203) 334-6154.

The Center for Family Justice provides a 24-hour crisis hotline, emergency safe housing, support groups, prevention and education programs, and specialized services for youth through Camp HOPE America-Bridgeport and Pathways to HOPE.