Kunti Bentley and charity Jordan Rex come to discuss October’s Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM). This is a month dedicated to raising awareness, sharing information, resources and prevention tips.
In this pop-up, Kunti and Charity share reminders about the magnitude of domestic violence, discuss a way to bust myths about domestic violence, and share resources and ways to participate in DVAM activities.
The extent of domestic violence
Domestic violence is a silent pandemic. It’s far more prevalent than most people think: one in three women and one in four men are victims of domestic violence in the Ozarks. Last year, more than 9,000 people sought help in the form of domestic violence services, but only 3,600 received services due to lack of resources. Missouri is in the top 10 in the nation for reported domestic violence cases and Springfield leads Missouri in reported cases.
It’s been a busy year at Harmony House, with many people seeking services. But community members also seek education.
Nixa’s domestic violence shelter, Freedom’s Rest, recently closed its doors, leaving a void in the community. Harmony House is already receiving calls from people in this area who need to be connected to services.
Myth buster
There are many myths surrounding domestic violence and a common question is, “Why doesn’t someone facing a domestic violence situation leave?” »
There are many obstacles for survivors of domestic violence. One of the most important is the fear of retaliation from the abuser; not just against themselves, but against anyone they care about or love. This could be their children, friends, other family members, co-workers, or even their pets.
There is a very real concern about retaliation. Leaving is the most dangerous moment in a domestic violence situation. During this time, the risk of not only physical harm, but even death from the perpetrator increases exponentially. Getting out of this situation does not remove this concern. It doesn’t make them safe just because they’re out. Numerous security plans must be put in place.
We must trust survivors and victims. They know their attacker better than anyone. Being external and looking inward, we cannot know everything they are facing. The survivor is in the best position to know her situation, what will make her situation worse, and what she needs to do to keep herself safe. While it may seem counterintuitive to go back or stay, it may be the safest thing they can do to stay alive. It is important to identify ways to support people as they go through this.
DVAM activities and events
October 26: The MSU Student Government Association will observe Purple Thursday at the Plaster Student Union. Meet, sign a banner and talk with students who are passionate about this topic.
Harmony House is celebrating iCare this month with many activities. More information is available at www.myharmonyhouse.org. Believe the survivors. Model healthy relationships yourself. Be supportive.
Resources
The Victims Center provides free services to victims of violent and/or sexual crimes through 24-hour crisis response, individual and group counseling, personal advocacy and court support.
The Family Justice Center is dedicated to ending domestic violence and resulting victimization through prevention and coordinated response by providing comprehensive client-centered services.
House of Harmonyoffers a 24/7 hotline at 417-864-SAFE, or chat live online.
More resources are available at KSMU’s Courageous Talks page in individual episodes.
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