From March 10 to 13, 2025, the National Network to End Domestic Violence (NNEDV) hosted the 8th Annual Economic Justice Summit in Philadelphia, PA. This powerful three-day gathering brought together advocates, coalitions, experts, researchers, and allies to explore the critical intersection of domestic violence and economic security. The theme of this year’s Summit was Embracing Abundance and Innovation.
Through engaging speakers, insightful panel discussions, and hands-on workshops, attendees examined systemic barriers, shared innovative strategies, and identified policy solutions to strengthen economic justice efforts. The Summit served as a vital space for collaboration, equipping participants with tools to better support survivors and build stronger connections between the movement to end domestic violence and the broader fight against poverty.
At the Summit, several of our dedicated team members took the stage to share their expertise and commitment to economic justice for survivors. Nikki Kerchevale, Economic Justice Specialist, Amy Rumbel, Housing Advocacy and Policy Manager, and Jennifer Beittel, Chief Philanthropic Officer, led a powerful session on Pennsylvania’s approach to flexible funding, highlighting how survivor and community collaborations drive meaningful financial support. Through innovative partnerships, they shared real impact stories and practical strategies for expanding economic opportunities.
Kristen Herman, Director of Prevention, and Aishwarya Sinha, Senior Prevention Specialist, tackled the critical issue of pay equity as a domestic violence prevention strategy, emphasizing how wage disparities affect both survivors and the advocates who support them. Their session explored actionable ways to close the gap and build financial security, reinforcing economic justice as a key pillar in the movement to end domestic violence.
PCADV’s CEO, Susan Higginbotham, delivered an inspiring closing address. She called for our movement to find inspiration in the movement’s beginnings and highlighted the critical need for our movement to find our strength in coming together as we face the many challenges of our time.
As we wrap up this year’s Economic Justice Summit, we are reminded of the power of collaboration, innovation, and survivor-centered advocacy in the fight for economic justice. The conversations, connections, and strategies shared over these past few days will continue to fuel our collective efforts to dismantle financial barriers for survivors. Thank you to all the speakers, participants, and partners who made this event a success.
Together, we are creating a future where economic security is within reach for all survivors.
