Jasmine Farrell

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Empowerment Through Awareness: The Importance of DVAM

jasmine Farrell

With nearly every 1 in 2 women and more than 2 in 5 men reported experiencing intimate partner violence at some point in their lifetime, domestic violence has become alarmingly “normal”. In case you’re not too sure, domestic violence is not just one or both parties knocking their heads between the washer and dryer. It’s when one partner tries to control or harm the other. This can include hitting, yelling, or manipulating feelings, emotions, and finances. It can leave deep emotional and physical scars that can take years (decades even) to address. The root: it’s all about power. Thanks to organizations such as the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence which aim to educate, support, and uplift those who have been in these unfortunate situations, there’s hope. October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM), a vital time to honor and delve into why this issue matters.

A Brief History

 

Aight, so boom: The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence launched its first awareness campaign on October 1st, 1981. It expanded to a week and then eventually the entire month of October. By 1989, Congress passed Public Law 101-112, officially designated October National Domestic Violence Awareness Month!

Breaking the Silence

All year round we need to put a spotlight on domestic violence to help break the silence surrounding the issue, making it clear that it affects many individuals and families. If you’re reading this blog post, I’m sure you have seen some comments on social media platforms of users regurgitating the phrase “what goes on at home stays at home” not realizing how damaging leaving the abuse that “goes on at home” can cause. Putting domestic violence under that spotlight can lead to better understanding, with education and relearning. Knowing the signs and effects of domestic violence can you avoid it if you see some patterns or recognize it in your own life.... or a loved one’s life.

You Are Not Alone

We are not alone. You are not alone. There are resources. Highlighting available resources empowers survivors to seek help and support. You can make a post on your socials sharing hotlines, and local shelters that specifically support survivors, and donate your time to organizations and companies that provide the necessary resources one would need after leaving an abusive situation.  Volunteering your time, effort or funds can make a significant difference in the lives of those recovering from abusive situations.

The Importance of DVAM

Preventing Violence

Education: During DVAM, we can raise awareness and prevent future incidents by educating ourselves and others, we can intervene early for those at risk. Learn the signs! Share the signs!

Cultural Change: Let’s challenge societal norms that excuse abuse. The victim blaming, the jokes, the silencing of victims to protect people they know or look up to...all of it. Encouraging an environment that permeates with respect is essential for lasting change.

Advocacy for Policy Change

DVAM nudges us to advocate for laws that protect victims and hold abusers accountable (You know damn well there’s a lot more to do in this area. You know it) Our voices DO and CAN bring meaningful policy changes. The more people, companies, and organizations know the more doors will be open for more funding for shelters and hotlines.

Healing and Recovery

DVAM events create a sense of belonging among survivors and advocates, reminding us, again that we are not alone! By sharing stories of overcoming or a loved one’s experience of overcoming, we’ll inspire hope and the truth that healing is possible for everyone.

 

Listen...National Domestic Violence Awareness Month isn’t just a reminder—it's a call to action for all of us. We need to break the silence and challenge the norms that let abuse slide by. By educating ourselves and each other, advocating for real change, and extending our support to those who need it, we can create a community rooted in respect and safety.

 

National Resources

  1. National Domestic Violence Hotline

Provides 24/7 support, crisis intervention, and resources.

  1. RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network)

    • Website: rainn.org

    • Phone: 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)

Offers support for survivors of sexual violence and abuse.

  1. National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV)

Provides resources, advocacy, and information on domestic violence.

  1. Women's Law

Offers legal information and resources specifically for survivors of domestic violence.

 

  1. DomesticShelters.org

A searchable database of domestic violence shelters and programs across the U.S., including information on services offered.

Regional Shelters

  1. The Safe Horizon

Offers shelter, legal services, and support for survivors of domestic violence.

  1. Sojourn Services for Battered Women and Their Children

Provides a haven, counseling, and advocacy for survivors.

  1. Women’s Advocate Program

Offers emergency shelter, advocacy, and support services for women and children.

  1. The Haven

Provides emergency shelter, counseling, and resources for survivors of domestic violence.

  1. Houston Area Women’s Center

    • Location: Houston, TX

    • Website: hawc.org

Offers shelter, counseling, and advocacy for survivors of domestic and sexual violence.

 

 

 

Sources

https://ncadv.org/

https://www.domesticshelters.org/articles/ending-domestic-violence/a-comprehensive-guide-to-domestic-violence-awareness-month

https://www.congress.gov/101/statute/STATUTE-103/STATUTE-103-Pg685.pdf

Wisniewska, M. J.  (2023, December 7) "Domestic Violence Statistics 2024". Break The Cycle. https://www.breakthecycle.org/domestic-violence-statistics/

https://www.futureswithoutviolence.org/resources-events/get-the-facts/