Family members of Gabby Petito, who was killed by her fiancé during a 2021 road trip, will speak at the University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF) on March 2. The event, titled “Gabby’s Voice: Breaking the Silence on Domestic Violence,” is scheduled for 6-8 p.m. in Schaible Auditorium on UAF’s Troth Yeddha’ Campus and is open to the public. A Zoom option will also be provided.
Petito had been sharing her journey across the United States on social media before her disappearance drew national attention. Her mother, Nichole Schmidt, and stepmother, Tara Petito, are set to discuss their experience and highlight warning signs associated with domestic violence. According to organizers, “Schmidt and Tara Petito will share their story and discuss the warning signs of domestic violence.” They began advocacy work after Gabby Petito’s death with a focus on educating young people and families about prevention strategies and recognizing abuse before it escalates.
The event is hosted by the UAF Department of Justice in partnership with the Gabby Petito Foundation. Schmidt and Tara Petito are also expected to take part in additional community events while in Fairbanks.
Ahead of the main program, UAF’s Department of Justice will screen the first episode of “American Murder: Gabby Petito,” a Netflix documentary series that examines details surrounding her case as well as broader issues related to intimate partner violence. The screening will occur at 5 p.m. on Monday, February 23 at Hess Recreation Center.
Support resources for those affected by domestic violence will be available at both events.
For more information about these programs or support services related to domestic violence awareness, contact Derik Stone at dmstone@alaska.edu.
