Having worked with survivors of domestic violence for ten years in the United States, Amy Sarno has heard thousands of stories, but she was chilled when women from other countries would tell her about abusers who purposely moved them to another country to gain complete control. Sarno realized that just as she heard these stories from newcomers to the United States, so other shelter workers around the world might be hearing the same from American expats.
Sarno, a theatre professor at Beloit College in Wisconsin, leads support groups for women leaving abusive situations. Currently on sabbatical in Florence, she is writing a play about the challenges expat women face when they experience domestic violence and seeks expat women willing to share their stories.
She explains, ‘Telling your story can be frightening, but putting words to your experience gives you control of your own story.’ One interviewee for Sarno’s project observes that she ‘has a warmth and kindness that puts you at ease. It’s cathartic to speak with someone who is truly safe.’ Sarno carefully preserves her sources’ anonymity and invites participants to help her shape their stories.
To share your story, contact Amy Sarno at sarnofra@beloit.edu before November 1, 2013.
