America Thayer - A Life Stolen in a Domestic Violence Homicide
Our Executive Director, Christie Larson, was interviewed on Kare11 about anti-domestic violence advocacy work after America Thayer’s killing. See the full article and video on Kare11’s website.
Our community has been shaken by the recent murder of America Thayer, 55. America was a familiar face in Shakopee, where she lived and worked. On July 28, her life was stolen in a domestic violence homicide. Whether or not you knew America personally, we should all agree that what happened to America should never happen to anyone in any community.
Sometimes when violence occurs, it is easier to look away. Sometimes we don’t want to believe that this type of violence takes place in our own backyards. If we are going to prevent horrific acts like this from happening in the future, we need to take concrete steps towards creating community networks of support and safety.
America Thayer is the 17th person murdered due to domestic violence this year in Minnesota, and in 2020, at least 30 people were killed due to domestic violence across the state. Just in Scott County, Southern Valley Alliance answered a total of 652 calls to provide immediate support and resources to people in crisis. This is far too much harm in our community. We need to work together to ensure our cities and towns are safe for everyone. America should be with us today. Let us keep a piece of her in our hearts, share our deepest condolences with her loved ones, and commit to ending domestic violence in our community.
As a community, we need to prioritize ending domestic violence by supporting survivors and addressing relationship abuse in schools, workplaces, community centers, churches, and health care centers. As neighbors who care about each other’s well-being, we need to say something when we see someone being harmed. We cannot be silent. We must speak up and act for those who are being abused. Support organizations like Southern Valley Alliance by giving your time and talents. There are always opportunities for volunteer involvement: we can’t do this work alone.
Victims and survivors of relationship abuse and domestic violence are not alone, no matter how alone you may feel. There is help available in our community to provide resources and support. Southern Valley Alliance provides free and confidential services for those who need help or someone to talk to. You can reach out to our 24/7 crisis line at (952) 873-4214, email crisis@svamn.org or through our website, www.svamn.org. Please know that you are not alone. It is not your fault. We believe you and our community is here to support you.
Southern Valley Alliance (SVA) is a nonprofit organization that has been providing services and support for victims of domestic violence since 1984. SVA is the service provider for Scott and Carver counties and programs include a 24/7 Crisis line, crisis intervention, court advocacy, safe housing partnerships and community education.
Christie Larson, Executive Director
Southern Valley Alliance