October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month
In October 1981, a national “Day of Unity” was set aside to call attention to domestic violence. The “Day of Unity” connected advocates from across the country in their work to end domestic violence.
The cause grew into an entire week and then a month to mourn those we have lost to domestic violence, rejoice for those who have survived, and unite those who strive to end the violence.
Domestic violence is willful intimidation, part of a systemic pattern of power and control perpetrated by one partner against another. It affects every community, regardless of age, economic status, sexual orientation, gender, race, religion, or nationality. The statistics: 1-in-3 women and 1-in-4 men have experienced some form of domestic violence. Approximately 50% of transgender people will experience domestic violence in their lifetime.
Domestic Violence is easy to ignore when it’s not visible. Nearly 60% of all college students say it is difficult to identify dating abuse. Physical violence and assault are clear indicators of abuse; however, emotional and psychological abuse can be just as extreme as physical violence. Victims of digital abuse and harassment are twice as likely to be physically abused, twice as likely to be psychologically abused, and five times as likely to be sexually coerced.
While October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM), you can follow #DVAM2022 and #WeAreReslient tags on social media throughout the year to learn and engage as an advocate, ally, and/or survivor.
If you or someone you know is experiencing dating and/or domestic violence, please know that Gonzaga and local resources are available to you:
- The Office of Title IX can get you connected to support and resources. Submit an online sexual misconduct report to Gonzaga University or email us at titleix@gonzaga.edu.
- You may also speak with our Confidential Advocate at LCSNW via phone: 509-342-8564; email: guadvocate@lcsnw.org; or the 24/7 Crisis Line: 509-624-7273.
Local and National community resources are also available:
- YWCA Spokane offers free and confidential services for those impacted by domestic violence, such as safety planning, support advocacy, help with protection orders, confidential housing, and more. For connection to services please call, 509-789-9297. For immediate support please call, 509-326-2255, text 509-220-3725, or email help@ywcaspokane.org.
- National Domestic Violence Hotline offers free confidential help 24/7. Please Call 800-799-7233, or visit their website to use their chat functions.