Last week, Representative Zach Cook and Senator William Burt appeared in Ruidoso to reflect on this year’s legislative session in a forum hosted by Help End Abuse for Life (HEAL) and Sanctuary on the River.
With an unexpected turnout, the conservatory at Sanctuary on the River was lined wall-to-wall with local elected officials, HEAL staff and board members and many community members eager to hear about the successes and disappointments from this year’s state legislative session. Many individuals also asked the legislators to address concerns and questions, including water and economic considerations, as well as social issues.
After nearly two hours of discussion, the group adjourned. Representative Cook and Senator Burt rejoined HEAL staff and board members at The Nest domestic violence shelter for a private tour led by Executive Director Coleen Widell. The two were introduced to several full-time advocates and invited to hear stories about some of the work done in the shelter.
Cook said, “We know the issue of domestic violence in our community is very comprehensive and global in nature. It will take a thorough response that is equally equipped to impact safety in our homes. Together, between services like HEAL, elected officials, law enforcements and community members, we will make significant difference in the lives of victims of domestic violence.”
Representative Cook’s long dedication to supporting victims of domestic violence is evidenced by providing pro bono legal advice to victims, including residents of The Nest. His support also has extended to his work in Santa Fe. During legislative sessions, Representative Cook always provides a sympathetic ear to HEAL’s mission. Each vote he casts has been shaped by his decision to see through the perspective of advocates and victims.
Senator Burt shared his thoughts about the tour and the work being done in the shelter to help victims and change New Mexico’s high rate of domestic violence. “It must come from two fronts,” he said. “We have to make sure everyone knows that The Nest exists and can provide a life-changing program. Then we need to evolve our advocacy and develop knowledge. We need to keep up.”
Burt also said, “I am happy that we can talk about the issue of domestic violence like this – in regular conversation – that it doesn’t have to be embarrassing anymore, that it’s not a silent problem. I always want to help victims get to the right people – to let them know that there is a place you can go to be safe. It is wonderful I can always reference The Nest.”
Expressing regret for having a previously-scheduled meeting out of state, Senator Phil Griego also discussed the issue of domestic violence and called for action from all who want to see a day without abuse. “We have to continue to find funding and promote legislation that support The Nest and all the shelters in our state that provide a safe harbor for our families. New Mexico, and in particular some northern counties, are continually ranked nationally as having the highest rates of domestic violence crimes. This has to change.
“Our communities, the residents, the civic leaders and law enforcement have to band together and be committed to ending this type of violence. This is a global problem, but we can only change it by acting locally. We all have to do our part right where we live. Together, we can make a difference.”
LincolnCounty thanks Representative Cook, Senator Burt and Senator Griego for taking the time to demonstrate their dedication to their districts.
HEAL would also like to thank Village Mayor Tom Battin, County Commissioner Dallas Draper and Village Councilors Rifle Salas and Tim Coughlin for representing the public at the forum, as well as all the individuals who showed up to talk with the legislators and nurture Lincoln County’s relationship with our state government. Finally, many thanks to Debbie Haines-Nix for hosting the forum at the Sanctuary on the River.
Pictured are Senator Bill Burt and Representative Zack Cook at the Constituency Meeting hosted at Sanctuary on the River.
