Carol Maraj & Audrey Jackson Bring Domestic Violence Talk To Canarsie

Carol Maraj and Audrey Jackson brought a conversation about surviving domestic abuse to Canarsie, opening Café Conversations at Jackson’s Pop’s Place on October 23.

Nicki Minaj’s mother discussed her book, “Bruised But Not Broken,” with Pop Smoke’s mother at the restaurant and event space dedicated to the late rapper, according to BK Reader. Jackson chose the subject to launch the series during Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

“I wanted to bring conversations like these to the community,” Jackson said, explaining her wish to give people a place to talk openly.

The discussion covered boundaries. Jackson described learning that being welcoming did not require giving up her own limits.

The book connects Maraj’s own history with tools for readers. On her official website, Maraj describes a memoir that follows her life from Trinidad and Tobago to New York. It addresses both physical violence and the psychological harm of a controlling relationship.

The book’s description also lists material on isolation and manipulation, along with help recognizing warning signs. Chapters include Bible passages for reflection. A resource section explains forms of abuse and includes safety planning, while other sections address setting boundaries and regaining independence.

Maraj’s advocacy also extends to her foundation. Its website dates the organization to 2012 and lists domestic abuse education, counseling and workshops on peaceful ways to resolve conflict among its programs.

Jackson’s work in Canarsie has its own history. The Shoot For The Stars Foundation describes its mission as carrying forward Pop Smoke’s plans to help young people find opportunities, including those who felt poorly served by traditional schooling. Its account says he had approached educators about donating computers and other technology to local schools before his death in 2020.

That work has included Pop Smoke Day celebrations in Brooklyn. The Canarsie Courier reported that the July 20 birthday event brought a parade to Canarsie Park, with sports and performances. Alongside the sports, organizers offered yoga, activities for parents and children and a train ride. Vendors lined the route from the park entrance toward its basketball courts. Councilwoman Mercedes Narcisse presented Jackson with a City Council citation for her work serving the neighborhood.