“I know what it’s like to hide in a closet and pray to God, ‘Do not let anything happen to me.’”
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As Democrats took over the House Wednesday, staging a sit-in on the chamber floor, many took to the mic for a range of powerful speeches. But the words of Rep. Debbie Dingell (D-Mich.) stood out among the crowd. Dingell told her colleagues in a speech that was met with resounding applause,
“I lived in a house with a man that should not have had a gun. I know what it’s like to see a gun pointed at you and wonder if you are going to live. I know what it’s like to hide in a closet and pray to God, ‘Do not let anything happen to me.’”
Dingell has discussed her experience with domestic violence in the past, but yesterday’s speech was particularly moving. Watch the full video below:
Those on the House floor were not the only ones moved by her impassioned speech. Twitter users quickly took to the social media platform to also express their support for both Dingell and her message.
Whoa. Rep. Debbie Dingell. Thank you. Powerful. @RepDebDingell— Victoria Helen Stone / Dahl (@Victoria Helen Stone / Dahl) 1466655976