Agape Life

Breasts cancer is not the only cause that our society should be aware of during the month of October. According to the National Coalition of Domestic Violence (NCDV) one out of every four females will experience some form of violence in their lifetime. Even though, this epidemic appears to be solely against females nearly 15% of victims are males. Children who witness domestic violence are often more prone to become victims or abusers.  The statistics are outstanding, however how can women, men, and children protect themselves against violence within their homes. 

 

Speaking out against violence is probably one the best defenses a person can use.  Individuals should contact their local law enforcement if they expect abuse.  It is important to have record of the abuse and to seek support.  There are several local domestic violence agencies that are willing to help victims of abuse. Nevertheless, it is vital that we, as a society, find our voice to make a difference.

 

In current news NFL star, Ray Rice, was videotaped assaulting his wife in an elevator.  Rice was offered pre-trial interventions, which could ultimately mean that he will not face charges.  South African Olympian, Oscar Pistorius, was found guilty of culpable homicide for killing his girlfriend, a lesser charge to murder. Sentencing could range from a suspended sentence to fifteen years of prison time. With these two cases it is apparent that domestic violence is seen to be inconsequential.

 

However, there is hope. The “No More” campaign is a three year program to increase awareness about domestic violence and sexual abuse.  Over fifty celebrities to include Courtney Cox, Ice T, and Mariska Hartigay, who plays Detective Benson on Law & Order: SVU, have joined forces to help spread the word about domestic violence. Hartigay along with her colleagues work daily portraying the detectives that try to assist those who have been abused. The show inspired her to begin this campaign to increase awareness world-wide.  We must say “No more” to the comments “she was asking for it,” “he’s a nice guy;” and “it’s not my problem.” Domestic violence is everyone’s problem and it is time to become aware of the issue.

 

In order to decrease domestic violence we must understand it.  Domestic violence is not only limited to physical abuse.  The NCDV defines it as “the willful intimidation, physical assault, battery, sexual assault, and/or other abusive behavior perpetrated by an intimate partner against another.”  This means emotional, verbal, and sexual abuse that is rendered to another person is considered domestic abuse.  Therefore it is imperative that individuals take inventory of their lives to determine if they are being victimized.

The consequences of domestic violence are too great to ignore. We, as a society, must become an active participant in decreasing this trend of victimization until it becomes extinct.  Challenge yourselves to assist someone in need by donating to your local shelter, reaching out to those who have been abused, and saying “No More” to domestic abuse. 

 

Please visit www.nomore.org to gain more information.