Dee Adekugbe, known affectionately as "Mama Dee" in her community. Adekugbe's journey, from her roots in Nigeria and upbringing in London to her current life in Calgary, Canada, is a tale of resilience and transformation. As the founder and executive director of Ruth's House, she provides a haven for families grappling with domestic violence, particularly within the African communities in Calgary.
Creating Safe Spaces: Ruth's House's Mission
Adekugbe's personal experience as a survivor of domestic violence fuels her passion for aiding others in similar predicaments. Ruth's House emerged from her desire to offer more than counsel – it serves as a refuge, a place for families to escape danger and rebuild their lives. The initiative grew in response to the amplified domestic violence cases during the pandemic, reflecting Adekugbe's commitment to practical, compassionate solutions.
Tackling Domestic Violence in Immigrant Communities
Dee Adekugbe delves into the nuances of domestic violence within immigrant communities, emphasizing the unique challenges they face. Economic hardships, community isolation, and cultural disconnection in a new country contribute significantly to domestic strife. Adekugbe stresses the importance of culturally sensitive approaches to address these issues effectively.
Breaking the Silence: Raising Awareness and Building Understanding
A key aspect of Adekugbe's work is raising awareness about domestic violence in the African community. She advocates for a broader understanding of the issue, highlighting the need for culturally aware support systems. This effort aims to break down barriers of silence and shame that often prevent victims from seeking help.
The Role of Mental Health and Support Systems
Mental health emerges as a critical focus in Dee Adekugbe's mission. She talks about the deep emotional and psychological scars left by domestic violence and the importance of rebuilding self-esteem and confidence in survivors. Her approach is holistic, addressing not just the physical, but also the emotional and mental well-being of those she helps.
A Call to Action for the Community
Dee Adekugbe's interview concludes with a powerful call to action for the community. She urges everyone to recognize domestic violence as a collective issue and to actively participate in eradicating it. Her message is clear: it's not enough to
be aware; active engagement and support are crucial in combating this pervasive issue.
Empowering Men and Women Alike
Ruth's House is notable for its inclusivity, offering support to both women and men affected by domestic violence. Adekugbe highlights the often-overlooked plight of men in abusive situations and discusses "The Brotherhood," a program specifically designed to support and empower male victims. This initiative reflects her understanding that domestic violence is not bound by gender and that comprehensive family support is essential for true healing and change.
Embracing Cultural Sensitivity in Support Services
Adekugbe emphasizes the importance of cultural sensitivity in providing support services. Understanding and respecting the cultural backgrounds of victims are vital for effective intervention. She stresses that while physical wounds may heal, the emotional and mental trauma of domestic abuse requires careful, culturally-aware handling to ensure genuine recovery and empowerment.
Inspiration and Hope for Future Generations
Dee Adekugbe's work with Ruth's House is more than just providing a safe haven; it's about inspiring hope and change for future generations. She believes that by addressing domestic violence today, we can protect the future of our children and break the cycle of abuse. Her vision extends beyond immediate relief, aiming for long-term impact and societal transformation.
Watch the Full Interview Series: To delve deeper into Dee Adekugbe's inspiring story and the impactful work of Ruth's House, watch the full interview on Anne Sureshkumar's YouTube channel:
Dee Adekugbe's story and the work of Ruth's House stand as a beacon of resilience, hope, and community empowerment. Her experiences and insights shared in these interviews offer valuable lessons and inspiration for anyone looking to make a positive difference in the lives of those affected by domestic violence.
Anne Sureshkumar
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