Clackamas Women’s Services to host community workshop in Welches

When Susan “Phoenix” Lane was found last year, and her death ruled a result of domestic violence by those who love her, people on the mountain reached out — to the county, the state, legislators, and anyone who would listen — requesting better resources to help those experiencing abuse in their community. 

It wasn’t the first time Mount Hood residents had professed a need for this kind of support, but the circumstances and media coverage of Phoenix’s death helped emphasize their plea. 

Clackamas Women’s Services has heard the community, and in response have scheduled a workshop for residents to learn and discuss how best to support their neighbors who might be living in, or have survived, situations of domestic violence. 

From 5:30-7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 28, people are invited to gather at Hoodland Bazaar, 68278 Highway 26, Welches. Those interested in attending must register beforehand since space is limited, and should bring a blanket, cushion, or chair to sit in. You can register to attend online. 

“People have been asking for this,” said Christen Prudence, longtime mountain resident and friend of Phoenix. “There was another domestic violence situation up here last summer. We’re a small town, so for this to be happening on a regular basis and we know, it makes you wonder.” 

Erin Ritchie, training and outreach coordinator for CWS, will be leading the workshop. She said this is the first, but potentially not the last, CWS-facilitated training of this kind on Mount Hood. 

“Because resources are so limited in rural areas, we’re trying to find ways to better serve that community,” Ritchie explained. “We want community members to feel more empowered to talk to their neighbors. Usually there are signs to look for.”

“So many people knew Phoenix was going through a hard time but didn’t have the tools to help her,” Prudence said. “We need the support and tools so that this doesn’t happen again.” 

While people of all gender identities can experience domestic violence, “statistically more women experience domestic violence,” Ritchie explained. So this workshop will focus on the experience of female-identifying people. “We can’t talk about domestic violence and not talk about the gender imbalance,” Ritchie added. Those who plan to attend are encouraged to take steps before and after to care for their mental health since the subject matter of the workshop can be triggering, especially for those with direct experience. “It’s going to be a tough conversation,” Ritchie said. “I’m hoping this is another way something good can come out of something terrible,” Prudence added. “So Phoenix didn’t die in vain.” 

If you have questions about the workshop beforehand, or about Clackamas Women’s Services, you can reach out to Erin Ritchie via email or by phone at 971-271-4298.

The workshop is free to attend.