During our Awards Gala, former Safe Passage graduate, Catherine Sanson received the Andy Armstrong Positive Action Award

This award is given to an advocate that promotes ending Domestic Violence, making strides to take positive action to accomplish this goal. Her son, Luke inspired us all as he also received the award alongside his mother making a speech that stunned the entire room. Luke was passionate in his deliverance about an implementation of a law, “Luke’s Law”, that gives children and teenagers a voice, who have been teared down by the judicial system from domestic violence cases.

Catherine Sanson says, “I am very proud of my son for courageously speaking out against the injustice that he has had to endure these past years. Although, “Luke’s Law” will not be executed in time to give Luke the voice he wants in the US court system today, it is time for new changes. Luke desires to stand up and be the voice for all children. A voice to all to speak out against abuse inflicted upon them without revictimization. Judges should see and hear from them before any recommendations of their best interests are given”.

“Wow! I am extremely proud to have been even a small part of the awards process and especially to have my name on this award. Luke’s speech was something absolutely incredible. A terrible reminder of what can be allowed to
happen without something like “Luke’s Law” but also a truly moving speech by a young man who has endured horrible actions and yet has turned his experience into a really wonderful cause. Luke’s strength of character, projection of opinion and intelligent maturity were nothing less than amazing. I really feel his speech should be something that is shown in schools as there are clearly many stories like his past happening to other children. But I doubt many victims would have the courage and absolute honesty to talk about them the way Luke can. An inspiring young man! Well done, Catherine Sanson!”

-Andy Armstrong