In this powerful episode of "Bravehearts Speak," host Lucia Severtson continues her conversation with Kris Barney, who bravely recounts the loss of her daughter Miranda to domestic violence. Kris shares her journey through grief, systemic failures, and her ongoing fight for justice and awareness. She discusses the hidden dynamics of abuse, the challenges survivors face, and the importance of community and support. The episode offers hope, practical resources, and reflections on resilience, emphasizing that healing and a fulfilling life are possible after trauma.

Timestamps

The Power of Witnessing and Reflection (00:02:40) Lucia explains the importance of witnessing stories, intentional pauses, and reflecting on personal and systemic responsibility.

The Murder of Miranda and Systemic Failures (00:05:23) Kris recounts her daughter Miranda's murder, the suicide tape, and the failures of the legal and social systems.

Ignored Warnings and Institutional Inaction (00:06:40) Kris describes how warnings about Charles's intentions were ignored by authorities, leading to tragic consequences.

Legal Battles and Lack of Accountability (00:10:31) Kris details her lawsuit against the city, the lack of responsibility from authorities, and her resolve to fight for justice.

Gwen's Law and Legislative Challenges (00:20:27) Kris explains the creation of Gwen's Law, its limitations, and ongoing issues with domestic violence legislation in Louisiana.

Patterns of Harm and Systemic Normalization (00:25:41) Lucia highlights how harmful patterns are normalized in families and institutions when not confronted.

The Impact of Non-Physical Abuse (00:29:22) Kris explains how non-physical abuse rewires victims' brains and the importance of understanding all forms of abuse.

Grooming, Manipulation, and Self-Blame (00:29:54) Kris describes how abusers groom and manipulate, leading survivors to self-blame and lose self-esteem.

The Importance of Support Networks (00:37:40) Kris credits her family and friends for her survival, noting many survivors lack such support due to isolation.

Rebuilding Trust in Systems (00:41:44) Kris shares her struggle to see law enforcement and legal professionals as allies after experiencing systemic failures.

Refusing to Disappear and Finding Purpose (00:42:19) Kris describes her refusal to let tragedy define her, choosing to honor her daughter through advocacy and purpose.

Homelessness and Financial Abuse (00:43:34) Kris explains how domestic violence leads to homelessness and financial abuse, making it hard for women to leave.

Life After Loss and Hope for Survivors (00:45:43) Kris shares her journey to healing, raising healthy children, and encourages others that a good life is possible after abuse.

Challenging Systems and Insisting on Accountability (00:47:06) Kris discusses her commitment to challenging systems, making people uncomfortable, and insisting on accountability.

Sharing Resources and Building Community (00:49:26) Kris shares Miranda's website and her organization's resources, emphasizing the importance of accessible support.

Gratitude and Connection Among Survivors (00:51:35) Kris and the hosts express gratitude, discuss building community, and the importance of survivor connections.

Powerful Quotes from the Episode

Kris, "All I ever want for anyone suffering or who thinks they can't get out is to know that you can. You will be okay. I'm the perfect example."

Kris, "The day I laid her precious, tiny little body in the ground, I decided I was going to fight for her until my very last breath."

Kris, "I chose to do something good, not only for Michelle and Miranda, but for everyone else who no longer has a voice."

Kris, "If no one else has your back, I will have it. I will have it."

Kris, "After Miranda was killed, I got free counseling. So it is attainable. A beautiful and wonderful life is attainable."

RESOURCES:

Connect with Kris: Speaker • Survivor • Advocate • Community Educator

Miranda Faith Memorial Fund

Miranda Faith Memorial Fund Facebook Page

INSTAGRAM: @hkbarney

Email: [email protected]

Kris Barney is the Community Advocate with the Domestic Abuse Resistance Team in Ruston, Louisiana. A survivor of domestic violence and stalking, Kris lost her 3-year-old daughter, Miranda, to domestic homicide. She now speaks nationally on resilience, survivor support, and improving community responses to abuse. Kris has trained at major conferences, including the Conference on Crimes Against Women and the National Center on Victims of Crime.

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