Policy advocate for ending domestic violence to speak at KU

LAWRENCE – The Robert J. Dole Institute of Politics at the University of Kansas will welcome Ludy Green, author and international spokesperson on domestic violence issues, to discuss her book, “Ending Domestic Violence Captivity: A Guide to Economic Freedom” at 3 p.m. Nov. 18 at the Dole Institute. The event is free, open to the public and includes a book sale and signing.

Green is the president and founder of Second Chance Employment Services, a nonprofit organization providing meaningful employment for domestic violence victims. Green’s recent book focuses on how a woman can regain her independence, her well-being and her dignity by distancing herself from her abuser through employment.

“Economic security is a woman’s best defense against domestic violence,” Green has said.

In addition, Green will touch upon how she has developed solutions to domestic violence issues by working with CEOs of large corporations, Congress and the United Nations. Green’s efforts have been credited for inserting new employment-related language into the Violence Against Women Act of 2013 to promote financial independence for domestic violence victims.

“Dr. Green’s passion and determination for changing the landscape of domestic violence in America has stood out in Washington, D.C.,” said Dole Institute Director Bill Lacy. “So much so that Senator Dole himself recommended we have Dr. Green speak at the Institute.”

Some of Green’s accomplishments include serving under the State Department as cultural ambassador of the United States in Human Trafficking to Jordan and Syria, presenting at the Qatar International Business Women Forum and participating in the International Women's Forum. Green has also won many prestigious awards related to her efforts such as the 2008 Woman of Vision Award and Washingtonian of the Year.

The Dole Institute of Politics is dedicated to promoting public service, civic engagement and politics.It is located on KU’s west campus and includes the Robert J. Dole Archive & Special Collections. The Institute offers free public programming with world-renowned guest speakers on a variety of topics that intersect politics, as well as interactive opportunities for students of all ages.