#FitChicks: Taking A Stand Against Domestic Violence

Image National Abuse Council

October is such an awesome month and the more we grow as individuals it is easily becoming one of our favorites. October usually means the introduction of all of our fall favorites but it also affords us the opportunity to acknowledge some pretty important causes - Breast Cancer Awareness and Domestic Violence Awareness.

Today, we are shining a light on domestic violence by sharing important national stats, highlighting some dope people who are dedicated to raising awareness, and letting you know how you can help those affected.

The Ugly Truth

• On a typical day, there are more than 20,000 phone calls placed to domestic violence hotlines nationwide.

• The presence of a gun in a domestic violence situation increases the risk of homicide by 500%.

• Intimate partner violence accounts for 15% of all violent crime.

• Women between the ages of 18-24 are most commonly abused by an intimate partner.

• 19% of domestic violence involves a weapon.

• Domestic victimization is correlated with a higher rate of depression and suicidal behavior.

• 1 in 15 children are exposed to intimate partner violence each year, and 90% of these children are eyewitnesses to this violence.

• Women abused by their intimate partners are more vulnerable to contracting HIV or other STI’s due to forced intercourse or prolonged exposure to stress.

• Studies suggest that there is a relationship between intimate partner violence and depression and suicidal behavior.

Source: National Coalition Against Domestic Violence

Pretty eye opening, right? When we think of domestic violence we normally categorize it as physical abuse but emotional abuse, threats, and sexual violence are all a part of this too and can affect the victim with scars that may not be visible but still carry a heavy burden.

Supporters

"If you tell anyone, I'll kill you." Painting by Ignacio Nunez. Those words, the constant threats of killing my children and my dogs, and of killing me. October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Stop the Silence...I am. #danger #felony #criminal #americanhorrorstory #america #domesticviolence #domesticabuse #domesticviolenceawareness #threats #physicalabuse #emotionalabuse #mentalabuse #verbalabuse #shelter #fear #havefaith #pray #God #abusers #nightmare #humantrafficking #scammer #fear #humiliation #control #life #karma #artist #art

A photo posted by Janette Souliere (@janette_souliere) on Oct 20, 2016 at 7:54pm PDT

I had the amazing privilege to interview with @10blessingsinc about my abuse! Please visit the site and see how I made it out, chose to forgive and how I healed! You ladies are doing a great work over there at @10blessingsinc, thank you for the opportunity to share my story. http://www.10blessings.org/news/thebutterflyproject

A photo posted by Domestic Violence Survivors (@theebutterflyproject) on Oct 20, 2016 at 10:32am PDT

So now what? What can we as individuals do to support those affected and generate a community of support so that victims feel safe.

 

1. Wear purple: Purple is the color that symbolizes domestic violence. I know this doesn’t sound like much but showing your support, even in a way that you might feel is small, makes a world of difference.

2. Donate: There are so many organizations that support this cause and generate funds to support those affected. So, why not put your money where your mouth is and make a donation? I personally try to make at the very least a monetary donation annually to the National Network to End Domestic Violence. But there are so many organizations so, find one that speaks to your soul and give. If your money is a little funny, you can also donate your old clothes and household items to a women’s shelter in your city.

3. Volunteer: Most cities have women shelters that cater to those affected by domestic violence and their families. These shelters are the heart and soul of the cause because they are literally risking their safety to house and provide a safe haven for the victims while they make attempts to get back on their feet.  In Dallas our go-to outreach program is Genesis Women’s Shelter. Genesis Women's Shelter & Support provides shelter, safety, counseling, and expert services to women and children who have experienced domestic violence.

How are you taking a stand against domestic violence? Share in the comments below.

XOXO, Brit & Chan

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