From left, Lindsey Dubose, Maria Cruz and Laurielle Watkins light candles during Thursday night’s vigil at Bouligny Plaze in New Iberia.

Dozens of parents and teens filled Bouligny Plaza on Thursday night to address a topic many teens shy away from … dating violence.

February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Month. The event in recognition of the cause was  sponsored by Chez Hope. 

Organizers were hopeful the event sparks discussion and education in an area that may not be discussed at home. 

“It is so important for this to happen for the connection of the parent and the teen and for the education, Chez Hope executive director Cherrise Picard said. “Education is key and education leads to prevention. We believe in the education of our parents and the education of our youth,” she continued. 

Dating violence happens more often than parents and teachers might be aware, according to some of the teens who attended last night’s event. 

Louisiana dating violence statistics show that young women ages 18 to 24 experience intimate partner violence at a rate almost twice the national average.

Maria Pham, a senior at New Iberia Senior High School, gathered research, which she shared with the crowd. Most teenagers, Pham said, aren’t included in domestic violence statistics because it is not listed as a crime among teens.

Sophie Broussard, a member of NISH’s Honor Choir USA, spoke candidly about the issue and its affect among her peers. 

“It happens. I know people it has happened to… This is the age dating increases and you hear about it often,” said the 17-year-old student.

New Iberia City Councilwoman and minister Sherry Guidry also spoke at the event. She said a heart-felt prayer for teens and their parents. 

Guidry prayed that teens know their true identity in God before entering relationships that may become toxic.

“The event tonight was really amazing to see the amount of individuals who have come out and our leaders who have come out. I’m very humbled by the turnout,” Picard said.

Teens lit candles in recognition of the night’s purpose. Each high school present, which included Westgate High School, NISH, Highland Baptist Christian School and Jeanerette High School, launched balloons as they considered a friend or a classmate who may be suffering through a violent relationship.

“I’m hoping that teens that see this issue happening speak up and let that person know that there is help that this is not a healthy relationship and this is not how relationships are, you can get help,” Picard said.