Manavi's 25th Anniversary Gala
By Rachna Kapur
May 9, 2010
Actress Zeenat Aman
Celebrating 25 years of helping in the struggle to eradicate violence against women, Manavi has come a long way from its humble beginnings to a well established organization that has its voice heard at the state and national level. Manavi celebrated their accomplishments by organizing a formal gala at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Jersey City, NJ on May 8, 2010. The event included a beautiful venue overlooking the New York skyline, a guest speaker who is known for her work in Indian cinema, delicious Indian cuisine, and most importantly words from survivors of domestic abuse. Joya Dass (AVS host), emcee of the gala honored Ellen Pence, who has dedicated 30 years to ending violence in lives of women and children. Zeenat Aman was a guest speaker who spoke about the controversial roles that dealt with social justice issues that she took on during her career in Indian cinema, survivors spoke about the abuse they had experienced and the help they received from Manavi. From the many women that spoke about their experience with Manavi, guests learned that Manavi's mission is not only to raise awareness of the issue of domestic violence against women, but to also help women that are suffering and provide them with the needed help. After the many moving speeches, guests were treated with a special musical performance by Raje Shwari.
Manavi provides victims of abuse with a safe haven called "Ashiana", they provide clothing, food, support and shelter. Manavi also goes steps further and provides victims with therapy, legal support and cellular phones donated by Verizon Wireless. Manavi was founded in 1985 and was the first organization of its kind for the South Asian community in the United States. They have helped countless victims get back on their feet and many of them have turned around and supported other victims of domestic violence.
For more information on Manavi and to donate visit: www.manavi.org
Manavi provides victims of abuse with a safe haven called "Ashiana", they provide clothing, food, support and shelter. Manavi also goes steps further and provides victims with therapy, legal support and cellular phones donated by Verizon Wireless. Manavi was founded in 1985 and was the first organization of its kind for the South Asian community in the United States. They have helped countless victims get back on their feet and many of them have turned around and supported other victims of domestic violence.
For more information on Manavi and to donate visit: www.manavi.org