Domestic violence is a topic that is often associated with female victims, such as in the tragic homicide of Gabby Petito that shook the nation and ignited conversations on this issue. Despite the strong stature of Imani Kaliid who towers over 6’4” tall and 220 lbs., he also endured a painful history as a survivor of domestic abuse and street violence that not only impacted much of his childhood but also propelled his powerful journey and lifelong commitment toward helping others.
“Every year, more than 10 million men and women in the U.S. are subjected to Domestic Violence… More than 1 in 3 women (35.6%) and more than 1 in 4 men (28.5%) in the U.S. will experience physical violence and/or stalking by an intimate partner in their lifetime” (Source).
From Pain to Power
Native to Los Angeles, Kaliid boasts a successful career in digital production and also services as an author, entrepreneur and podcast host of the “Misconnected Podcast,” a series that addresses difficult topics with social commentary, interviews and analysis.
Recently, Kaliid published his first book, entitled “There Was Violence” (available on Amazon, Apple and Google Books), a gripping memoir based on true events that explores Kaliid’s turbulent journey spanning from the mid-1970’s through the late 80’s. This coming-of-age tale follows Vaughn Harper, a young boy born into generational trauma who then navigates a chilling and unpredictably dangerous world of domestic and urban violence, while seeking peace and his triumphant and true calling.
“You are not the darkness you endured. You are the light that refused to surrender.” ― John Mark Green
After coming to terms with his own violent trauma, Kaliid instinctively knew that he needed to share his story with the world. He aims to inspire victims of violence to explore their own trauma, seek the appropriate help, and live a more peaceful and happy life.
InVia Foundation
Kaliid is also President of the InVia Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit entity based in California that is focused on technological tools and services for victims of violent trauma. Publishing this book serves as a relatable testimony and unfortunately common experience for multitudes of victims who remain silent, struggling or healing, which is why Kaliid sought a more direct avenue to connect and contribute to the world by establishing the InVia Foundation. In fact, the words ‘In’ and ‘Via’ translate to “on the way to…” in Latin. Kaliid’s goal is for people to be “on the way to a path of healing.”
“It doesn’t matter how rich or poor a person is, what gender or social class, or how much fame or education she possesses. Verbal, mental, and physical abuse can happen to anyone. It doesn’t matter what a woman’s ethnicity is because the only distinguishing color of abuse is black-and-blue.” ― La Toya Jackson
Free App to Save Lives
With a Master’s degree in Business Competitiveness and Innovation, Kaliid is personally and professionally devoted to saving victims in need. Once launched, Kaliid’s App will offer a Free Mobile service where people can identify their own stage of trauma and locate the appropriate path to help (i.e., mental health, physical, legal, etc.) based on geographical location.
“Trauma may happen to you, but it can never define you.” ― Melinda Longtin
Additionally, InVia Foundation will provide a surplus of funds as short-term financial assistance when violence disrupts the lives of distraught victims in the form of transportation, short-term housing, food, and more.
“The best revenge is creating your own happiness, despite a person’s wish to take you down.” ― Melinda Longtin
Access Links
Official website: www.therewasviolence.com
Purchase Links:
Apple Books: https://books.apple.com/us/audiobook/there-was-violence-how-crime-abuse-and-drugs/id1579108431
Google Books: https://play.google.com/store/books/details/Imani_Kaliid_There_Was_Violence?id=RPM4EAAAQBAJ
Media Contact
Company Name: Ruth Davis Consulting LLC
Contact Person: Ruth Davis
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Country: United States
Website: www.instagram.com/ruthi_davis/