Aly Raisman, one of the most decorated female gymnasts of all time and an outspoken advocate for survivors of sexual abuse, will be the keynote speaker for The Center for Family Justice’s 22nd annual Speaking of Women luncheon.
Presented by People’s United Bank, Raisman’s Speaking of Women keynote will take place at The Waterview in Monroe on Tuesday, Sept. 24. The luncheon program begins at noon.
Co-chaired by Sarah Cwikla Mastropole of Easton and Anna Rodrigues of Monroe, Speaking of Women is CFJ’s most important annual fundraiser. Each year, proceeds from the event benefit the thousands of victims of domestic and sexual violence and child abuse CFJ serves in the communities of Bridgeport, Easton, Fairfield, Monroe, Stratford and Trumbull.
Raisman was team captain of the Gold Medal winning U.S. Olympic Women’s Gymnastics teams in 2012 and 2016. Her six total Olympic medals make her the second most decorated American gymnast of all time.
In addition to her impressive accomplishments as an athlete, Raisman has emerged as a compelling voice for athletes and others impacted by sexual abuse. In her New York Times bestselling memoir, Fierce, she detailed the highs and lows of her journey to the Olympic podium, including her abuse by a former team doctor.
Since first revealing her personal experiences with abuse and speaking at the criminal sentencing of her abuser, Dr. Larry Nassar. Raisman has emerged as a passionate advocate for other victims and survivors and has called for systematic changes within the youth sports culture to prevent abuse.
“We are excited and honored to have Ali Raisman join us for our always meaningful and inspiring Speaking of Women luncheon,” said Debra A. Greenwood, CFJ’s President & CEO. “As we continue to have important conversations in our culture about the prevalence of domestic and sexual abuse, we believe Aly will bring an important message to our audience about our efforts to prevent abuse which will inspire those who support our mission of bringing hope into the lives of victims and survivors as they recover and heal.”
Greenwood noted the Speaking of Women event is always an important lead in to October, which is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. “Speaking of Women gives us an important platform to raise awareness about our efforts to offer help and hope to anyone impacted by domestic or sexual violence.”
Tickets for Speaking of Women are $175 each. Tickets to a special pre-luncheon VIP reception are $250 each. Sponsorship opportunities are also available.
For tickets and more information about Speaking of Women, please contact CFJ’s Development & Events Coordinator Chalae Satawhite at CSatawhite@CenterforFamilyJustice.org or call 203-334-6154 ext. 135.
