Female Inmates Attend Women’s History Month Tea

Page updated on March 19, 2024 at 11:47 AM
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Eight women in green jumpsuits sitting at tables with tea and breakfast foods listening to a women in a blue jacket speak. Three other women are also standing and listening to the speaker.

Eleven women at the William G. Truesdale Adult Detention Center recently attended a special program for Women’s History Month that combined the tradition of a social tea with valuable knowledge. On March 18, the inmates enjoyed a selection of hot teas as well as breakfast sandwiches while listening to guest speakers who shared information and inspiration intended to empower the women.

Barbara Sweeney, Residential Coordinator for Alexandria’s Domestic Violence Program, provided an overview of the evolution of public safety and government response to the problem of domestic violence. She then discussed specific services and resources for survivors of domestic and intimate partner abuse available in Alexandria and answered questions from the attendees.

Nechelle Terrell, Community Outreach Specialist for the Alexandria Health Department, discussed several areas of health, including women’s wellness, breast cancer awareness, STI prevention, HIV/AIDS, and common medical issues. She emphasized the importance of prevention, provided handouts, and answered questions.

The last speaker, author and minister Dr. Sandra Hill, delivered the inspirational message “Authentically, Uniquely You!” in which she emphasized the importance of self-confidence and resilience. These two “pillars” are important for all women but especially for those facing challenges, said Dr. Hill.

The women also received folders full of information about Women’s History Month and significant women and contributions by women in U.S. history.

The women enjoyed the tea and appreciated the messages, which were designed to empower and uplift them. Our Inmate Services team organized the tea and thanked the speakers, all of whom have previously been involved in outreach work with inmates at the Adult Detention Center.

Above: Nechelle Terrell (wearing blue jacket and white shirt) speaks about women's wellness as attendees and members of the Inmate Services team listen.

Below: Barbara Sweeney (at left) and several attendees listen as Dr. Sandra Hill speaks about resilience and self-confidence.

five women in green jumpsuits and one civilian, all seated at tables, listening to another women standing and speaking