Dozens Work On Ceramic Tile Quilt To Raise Domestic Violence Awareness

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) - March is Women's History Month.

While many women are being recognized for their accomplishments, others are using this time to raise awareness about domestic violence.

Small ceramic tiles painted with messages and symbols of love and peace - dozens of people gathered in the Strip District to create the works of art.

"Just a lot of really inspirational, just kind of positive messages being sent out so really thoughtful designs as well," Laura Jean McLaughlin said.

Eventually, all of the tiles will be put together on a big 100-pound quilt.

The project is to raise awareness for domestic violence. It was hosted by the Dignity and Respect Council of Greater Pittsburgh.

This is the third year for the event.

"Sometimes people think the world gets better as long as everybody else does something and this is a campaign and a message and an initiative all about all of us doing our part to make the world a better place," Candi Castleberry Singleton said.

"When you put your small tile with everyone else's tile, there's this big beautiful finished product that has this overall strong message of motivation to women," Phyllis Boykin said.

The whole idea is to provide hope and help to women dealing with domestic violence.

Statistics show that one-in-four women aged 18 and older have been victims of severe physical violence by an intimate partner.

"We can't always stop things from happening, but we can absolutely do our part to let you know that you are loved and you're cared for and that we are a city that will wrap our arms around you and ensure that the services that you need to make it through this period of time actually are available to you," Singleton said.

The finished quilt will be on display in the Allegheny County Courthouse, before being placed permanently at the Center for Victims.

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