Domestic Violence: A Public Safety Crisis 

Domestic violence can look different in different relationships. Defined as a pattern of coercive, controlling behavior, domestic violence can range from emotionally abusive tactics, like isolating romantic partners from their family and friends, to physical violence and sexual assault. For some women and children, years of emotional manipulation and verbal abuse can slowly pick away at their self-esteem and mental health until they have no choice but to leave without plans for shelter or survival. For many others a single, violent triggering event can be the direct cause of their homelessness as they seek safety from a dangerous partner. 

Since the early 1980s, October has been Domestic Violence Awareness Month. This awareness campaign creates an opportunity for communities and advocates to rally behind victims and survivors in an effort to help eliminate one of the greatest public safety crises this country faces. As lockdowns due to the pandemic continue, incidences of domestic violence rise, and thousands face the risk of losing their homes, it’s especially important to educate the public on domestic violence and how to support its victims. 

Domestic violence affects every race, religion, sexual orientation, and class. Yet the stigma that surrounds domestic violence, and the resulting shame it produces in its victims and their families, continues to be one of the biggest barriers advocates and communities face in eliminating and reducing domestic abuse. Research has shown that nearly 1 in 4 women experience violence from their partners and among mothers experiencing homelessness, nearly 80% have experienced domestic violence in their lives. Almost 90% of Women’s Empowerment’s students and graduates have experienced Domestic Violence. 

The reality that a quarter of women will be abused by their partner is even more sobering when you consider the other victims of domestic abuse outside of the relationship. Children in households where domestic violence is present are at a higher risk than their peers of experiencing both emotional and physical abuse themselves. This abuse, and even witnessing abuse between parents or guardians, increases the likelihood of developing a mental illness including depression, anxiety, and PTSD. This pattern increases the likelihood that these children will be victims of sexual abuse later on. This childhood sexual abuse can then in turn exacerbate mental health struggles which can become a major factor contributing to homelessness. 

In the battle against domestic violence and the fight to eradicate homelessness, our voices and our actions are our most powerful weapons. Continuing to speak up on behalf of survivors and also listening, believing, and supporting survivors year-round is critical in reducing the stigma around domestic violence that prevents victims from seeking help. We must also maintain personal and legislative support efforts for women and children who are experiencing homelessness as a result of domestic abuse. 

Women’s Empowerment offers a domestic violence support group for women who have experienced domestic violence.  There are also volunteer opportunities and ally programs that enable all of us to take an active role in empowering women experiencing homelessness and supporting domestic violence victims. Together we can face domestic violence and help keep our communities healthy, happy, and safe.