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Workshop shows students how police handle domestic violence situations
The Advocate
MHCC criminal justice instructor Chris Gorsek held a workshop Wednesday for students interested in learning how police approach a domestic violence situation.
The students in the Visual Arts Theater were primarily criminal justice students and about three fourths of them were young women.
Gorsek, a former Portland police officer, answered questions regarding prosecuting people who have been physically violent toward others close to them and gave his perspective as an officer on how difficult it is to answer a domestic violence call.
He spoke about the long-term effects that violence at home could have on the children in the house, “What is seen through their eyes can often remain branded in their psyche, which can often continue the cycle of violence,” said Gorsek.
Gorsek played three music videos from three diverse musicians, all of whom displayed the universal theme of trauma from violence. He selected three songs spanning three decades and the artists in the videos all appeared to have a history of a broken home or family and that impact has lingered long enough for them to result in song.
“I like to show how life imitates art in music videos. They often seem to be the most powerful message when presenting a social issue to people,” said Gorsek.
Gorsek handed out pamphlets to audience members with more information on how to avoid dangerous situations and relationships and where to turn to in case any came up.
Another workshop will take place on campus Wednesday from noon to 1 p.m., with location to be announced later.
This event will have guest speakers from the Bradley-Angle house, a local emergency housing shelter for victims of violence or neglect. This event is open to all students, their friends and family members.
For more information and location of the next session, contact Gorsek at 503-491-7321.
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