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October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month
To the Editor:
It's Domestic Violence Awareness Month (#DVAM)! Our theme for this year's #DVAM is once again #Every1KnowsSome1. Because it's true. We all know someone impacted by domestic violence. That one can be a friend. Family member. Co-worker. Acquaintance.
In just one day in 2023, local domestic violence programs across the country helped more than 76,000 survivors and their children. In the United States, 1 in 3 women and 1 in 9 men are victims of severe physical violence by an intimate partner. Domestic violence devastates families and communities, and it's up to all of us to support survivors and be part of the solution.
Domestic violence is a pattern of coercive, controlling behavior that can include physical, emotional, verbal, sexual, financial, and other abuse. It can include threats, harassment, putting someone down, pressuring someone around sex, controlling finances, and other tactics to gain power and control. #Every1KnowsSome1 who has been impacted, and we all have a role to play in ending it.
According to the World Health Organization, domestic violence is "devastatingly pervasive" and is by far the most prevalent form of violence against women globally. #Every1KnowsSome1 harmed by domestic violence, and it's up to all of us to create a better, safer world.
Across the world, marginalized populations experience disproportionately higher rates of violence, including domestic violence. Our anti-violence work must be judgement-free and culturally competent, as we serve those most impacted.
Domestic violence does not discriminate and it can happen to anyone, but survivors and victims of marginalized backgrounds and identities can have these used against them as tactics of control by their abusers. They also often face additional barriers to seeking help. Every survivor deserves help and support.
Locally, The Abuse Network provides confidential, free services to victims of domestic violence including crisis counseling, advocacy and accompaniment for medical and legal appointments, and personal advocacy to assist with getting needed resources. Our agency also works year-round toward ending domestic violence by educating the public to expand knowledge of domestic violence and to increase prevention of this crime. Educational programs concerning domestic violence are free of charge and are offered in schools and to professional and civic groups.
Get engaged this October during Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Join us in embracing your role in ending domestic violence. Wear purple to support survivors, use a purple ribbon as your picture on social media, volunteer or donate to a domestic violence program, or continue to educate yourself on the topic. Please call for services or further information 24 hours a day at 1-888-810-2444 or (717) 242-2444.
Sincerely,
Rebecca Wills
Director of Public Engagement
The Abuse Network