Cactus Village Community

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE IS EVERYONE'S BUSINESS

Jul 08, 2003

Domestic Violence is currently the number one reported crime in our neighborhood. This is pretty disturbing, especially when I know that for every domestic violence report, there are likely just as many that did not get reported to the police.

Domestic Violence is in all cultures, all income groups, all religions. The abused share feelings of helplessness, isolation, guilt, fear and shame. Most people feel that domestic violence is a terrible problem, and they want to do something to help. But where do you start? What you can do as a neighbor is to help raise awareness about domestic violence in your neighborhood and communicate to others that violence is never acceptable or excusable.
Domestic Violence will stop only when each one of us decides to take action. If you know or suspect someone you know is in a violent relationship, reach out to that person. You might think that something as simple as talking to a friend about abuse couldn't possibly make a difference. But it really does. Just knowing that someone cares enough to ask about abuse can break through the wall of isolation that can exist around victims of relationship abuse. You don't have to be an expert. You just need to be a friend.

O.k., so you think it?’s none of your business?? You are dead wrong. Domestic violence IS everyone?’s business. In fact, it?’s a crime, just like robbery or rape. If you see or hear an assault in progress, call 911. If you are outside and you witness an assault, write down the car license number and/or the location of the assault in progress and find the nearest phone to call the police. These situations can be dangerous, so whatever you do, be sure to keep yourself safe. But do something ?– don't assume that someone else has already taken care of it.

Imagine what you would probably do if you heard annoyingly loud music next door. After a while, you?’d probably ask your neighbor to turn it down, and you?’d call the police if they didn?’t. Now let?’s imagine a different scenario where you may be hearing annoyingly loud arguments and violence next door. If you think domestic violence is happening, it?’s now your duty to speak out and not look away. Let someone know that domestic violence is not acceptable in our neighborhood.

Please take a look at our local domestic violence resources below, and remember, there is NO excuse for domestic violence! 1-800-END ABUSE?…☺