As most of you know, October is a very important month. Not only does Halloween happen during October, but it is also Domestic Violence Awareness Month. This month is very important to not only me, but also the sisters of Alpha Chi Omega and many other women and men.
One in four women will experience domestic violence in their lifetime, and around one in sixteen men will as well. The worst part is that most of these cases go unnoticed or are never reported. In our society today, we tend to blame the victim, or when someone comes forward their entire life is scrutinized. By doing this we are creating an unsafe environment for the victims instead of creating a safe haven for them.
Every year, one in three women who are victims of homicide are killed by their current or former partner, according to Safehorizon.org. Domestic violence also causes homelessness in families to rise as well as creating an unsafe environment for the children who are in families plagued by domestic violence. This is often because of a lack of resources due to being financially dependent on the partner. Those who believe that women stay with their abusive partners because “they are stupid” and “deserve it” often forget to think about what could be going behind closed doors. There may be financial situations or women fear for their own life or children’s lives if they leave.
It takes a lot of courage for women to leave abusive homes and I applaud those who manage to. Don’t be so quick to judge someone else’s situation and instead try to help as much as you can. There are so many options available such as thehotline.org to help out someone in need. There is a 24/7 phone service and live chat online that can be utilized. If you feel compelled, help out at safe shelters for these women or donate clothes and other goods since so many are left with nothing when they flee.
This past week, Alpha Chi Omega at Ohio State had the honor of volunteering at Walk a Mile, an event that helps raise awareness for domestic violence and allows men to show their support for bringing an end to domestic violence. It’s events and campaigns like Walk a Mile and It’s On Us that are helping bring the spotlight to this issue that so many women face every day.
Taking that step, learning your facts, and making a change means that one day women will not have to live in fear within their own households and maybe one day domestic violence will be minuscule or nonexistent issue. It means that we can make a difference in the world and leave it better for our children and our friends and family. It’s time to raise awareness for an issue that happens to so many women and men on a daily basis.
Just remember, love shouldn’t hurt.
