Amélie, a La Louvière shelter resident for five months in 2009. When she came to the center, she had been separated from her partner for two years, had a job and was living with her small son. She was harassed by her ex, a repeat offender who could not take their separation or the rules established regarding custody of their son. Knowing that she was supported by her co-workers, he threatened her in- and outside the workplace, and did not spare her colleagues in his harassment. One of his countless impromptu visits finally degenerated, and Amélie endured a beating. A few days later, she was taken in by the shelter.
When talking about her past, the educators and leaders at the shelter all recalled being very afraid for her, owing to the extreme violence and profile of her ex. In particular, some mentioned the fear of an “honor crime.” The other poignant memory concerned her friendship with Laetitia, who was a resident at the same time as Amélie. Amélie is once again working, for a company she really enjoys. She has made a new life for herself with another man, and Laetitia is her second child’s godmother.
March 24, 2011 – Heppignies – Belgium.
© Pierre-Yves GINET