From Victim to Hero: Angela Thomas Smith’s Journey and the Power of Storytelling During Domestic Violence Awareness Month

This post includes mention of domestic violence and gun violence.

This post includes mention of domestic violence and gun violence.

October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month—a time to honor survivors, remember those we’ve lost, and recommit to building safer families and communities. Few stories embody survival, resilience, and purpose as powerfully as that of Angela Thomas Smith. In 2014, after a domestic violence incident in Anderson, South Carolina, Angela survived a gunshot wound to her leg. The physical wound healed; the emotional scars took longer. But out of that pain, she chose a path that now brings healing and hope to others.

Victim. Survivor. Hero. In reflecting on her journey, Angela describes three stages of recovery:

Victim: Feeling powerless, overwhelmed, and defined by what happened.

Survivor: Reclaiming your story and beginning to heal.

Hero: Transforming your experience into strength that serves others.

Angela’s path mirrors this progression. She refused to let violence define her future. Instead, she channeled her experience into advocacy, education, and empowerment—especially for Black and Brown authors and communities whose stories often go untold.

A new beginning and a new mission By 2016, Angela moved from Anderson, South Carolina, back to Atlanta, Georgia, and founded the African American Authors Literacy Awareness Campaign (AAALAC). Her goal: amplify the voices of Black and Brown writers and use the power of literature to educate, empower, and uplift. Through AAALAC, she encourages aspiring authors to tell their truths, reminding them that their stories matter—and that storytelling can be a vital part of healing.

Becoming a literary powerhouse Angela has authored hundreds of books and journals focused on resilience, faith, and empowerment. Her book, Bringing H.E.A.L.ing The City In H E E L S (BOOK 2): Reclaiming Our Lives After Domestic Violence, speaks directly to survivors and those who love them. She also expanded her reach through a multimedia network and a self-publishing coaching business, helping others bring their stories to life. In every endeavor, her message is clear: your voice is your power.

Why her story mattersRepresentation matters. Angela’s work creates space for voices historically overlooked and underpublished.
Storytelling heals. Writing and sharing our experiences can transform trauma into testimony.
Community is vital. By building platforms and networks, Angela helps survivors find connection, resources, and courage.

A message of hope Angela often shares how close she came to losing her life—and how choosing healing gave her purpose. Her journey from victim to “literary powerhouse” is a beacon for others navigating fear, shame, or uncertainty. Healing is possible. Your past does not have to define your future. And your story might be the lifeline someone else needs.

Bringing H E A L ing The City In H E E L S ; Bringing Awareness To Domestic Violence

How to support survivors this month—and beyondLearn and share: Post resources and facts about domestic violence. Awareness can save lives.
Listen without judgment: Believe survivors. Offer support, not pressure.
Give and volunteer: Support local shelters, hotlines, and advocacy groups.
Elevate survivor voices: Read, recommend, and share books and platforms that center survivors and marginalized communities.

If you or someone you know needs helpIn immediate danger: Call 911.
United States: National Domestic Violence Hotline — 1-800-799-7233 (SAFE), text START to 88788, or chat at thehotline.org. They offer confidential help 24/7.
South Carolina: Visit sccadvasa.org to locate local hotlines and shelters.
Georgia: Statewide 24/7 hotline — 1-800-33-HAVEN (1-800-334-2836).
Consider digital safety: Use a safe device if possible. The Hotline’s website has a quick-escape button and guidance on staying safer online.

This October, let Angela Thomas Smith’s journey remind us that every survivor’s story carries power. By turning her trauma into a platform for healing and advocacy, she’s lighting a path for others to follow—toward safety, toward voice, and toward a future where resilience and hope lead the way.