Monday Musings

  Domestic violence is a pervasive problem in the US and across the world. In 1978, the  National Coalition Against Domestic Violence  (NCADV) was established to give voice to both the victims and the survivors. Later, in 1987, the month of October became a time of national recognition. The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), major legislation taking aim to help protect and serve victims, became law in 1994. It has been updated and reauthorized frequently, most recently on March 15, 2022. Intimate partner violence is not just physical abuse, it can encompass every facet of a victim’s life. It is total power and control. Many organizations have developed information on how you can recognize and help prevent domestic violence. This  fact sheet from the CDC  provides a wealth of knowledge. If you are personally a victim of intimate partner violence, reach out-get help! The author is a survivor of child abuse, sexual abuse, and intimate partner violence. Her second b...

  As a survivor of Child Abuse, Sexual Abuse, and Intimate Partner Violence, I am honored to have served on the Board of Directors of both   Hubbard House   (from 2007–2012) and   The Domestic Abuse Project of Delaware County, Inc.   (from 2003–2007). Both organizations provide a number of services to individuals who are victims of domestic violence (Intimate Partner Violence). I am also proud to share my story in my new poetry book,  Family Treasons . Are you a victim of domestic violence? Find out more here  NCADV . If you are in immediate danger, call 9–1–1. For an o nymous, confidential help, 24/7, please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1–800–799–7233 (SAFE) or 1–800–787–3224 (TTY).

  An abuser’s best friend is silence: the silent fear of the victim and the silence of those who could report. What is Domestic Violence [Intimate Partner Violence-IPV]? Domestic violence is the willful intimidation, physical assault, battery, sexual assault, and/or other  abusive behavior  as part of a systematic pattern of power and control perpetrated by one intimate partner against another. It includes physical violence, sexual violence, psychological violence, and emotional abuse. The frequency and severity of domestic violence can vary dramatically; however, the one constant component of domestic violence is one partner’s consistent efforts to maintain  power and control  over the other. [NCADV] Domestic Violence Statistics  are staggering. [NCADV]. For anonymous, confidential help available 24/7, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1–800–799–7233 (SAFE) or 1–800–787–3224 (TTY). I am a survivor!  Anyone can be a victim of child abuse, ...