OCTOBER MARKS DOMESTIC VIOLENCE MONTH

Love should never hurt.
And yet, relationship violence is a far too common dynamic for many women (and men) on today’s dating and mating scene. According to NBCNEWS.COM, “Nearly 3 U.S. women are killed every day by current or former romantic partners.”

WHAT EXACTLY IS DOMESTIC VIOLENCE?

As per the Department of Justice: “We define domestic violence as a pattern of abusive behavior in any relationship that is used by one partner to gain or maintain power and control over another intimate partner. Domestic violence can be physical, sexual, emotional, economic, or psychological actions or threats of actions that influence another person.”

WHO DOES DOMESTIC VIOLENCE IMPACT?

Domestic Violence affects women (and men) from all different walks of life; from different educational backgrounds, races, age groups, educational and economic leanings.
Domestic Violence does not discriminate.
Though its impact is far-reaching, reportedly, African-American women comprise about 50% of female homicide victims. Not only does Domestic Violence “hurt” its victims, it takes a collective and burdensome toll on friends, family members, employers, church communities, and society at large. It robs us of stolen potential and future contributions.
Because of the serious, horrific nature of this crime, Domestic Violence Awareness Month evolved from the "Day of Unity" held in October 1981 and was conceived by the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence.
The primary goals in the evolving years, has been to educate, empower and eventually eradicate this social ill.

 A LOOK AT DOMESTIC VIOLENCE THROUGH THE EYES OF A COP

Domestic Violence has so many “moving parts”.  From the victims, to the families, to the health care providers, to law enforcement officials. To provide a more comprehensive, well-rounded view of some of the situations and circumstances surrounding this issue, some time ago, we at IMGF interviewed a Chicago cop who has experience in professionally dealing with this area.
You can learn more about protective measures, warning signs, suggestions and other useful Domestic Violence information in her interview here:
http://inamaegreene.blogspot.com/2013/05/a-look-at-domestic-violence-through.html

IN CLOSING…

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

If you or someone you love is caught in the grips of Domestic Violence, know that you are not alone. “Arm” yourself with accurate information, resources and available options, as they relate to your specific situation and location (or those that apply to your loved one).

Here are a few places and organizations (in addition to IMGF) that can help you with an array of needs, and provide guidance whatever your stage or transition.

NCADV.ORG
https://ncadv.org/learn-more/resources
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE RESOURCES BY CITY
http://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=31886
BETWEEN FRIENDS
http://betweenfriendschicago.org/gethelpnow_resources.html
Remember that: “A journey of a thousand miles begins with that first step.”
images  PIXABAY.COM