Dear Editor,
The month of October is designated as Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The overall goal is to bring awareness to the severity of every act of domestic violence. Domestic violence can affect any race, gender, and social status. The abuse can exist in many aspects of a relationship, which can include isolation from society and families, emotional abuse, economic abuse, using children, abuse with technology, and sexual abuse.
Recognizing different forms of abuse can help bring awareness and relief to all victims and survivors of the horrific incidents and relationships that have caused so much damage to individuals. Statistics show that children who are exposed to domestic violence are 2 times more likely to become a victim or perpetrator of domestic violence, and 1 in 4 women and 1 in 10 men are victims of domestic violence.
Devastatingly enough, some victims are unable to leave their relationship with their abuser as the situation worsens, or the abuser finally snaps when the victim tries to leave. There were 73 domestic violence related homicides in the State of Arizona just in the year 2020.
The overall goal is to decrease and put an end to the number of victims of domestic violence. Success in improving this issue can be obtained by the community coming together and building strength to work toward this issue. This includes training and the best practices possible within law enforcement, courts, probation, advocacy, shelters, crisis and social workers, medical field workers, academic staff, community outreach, and families in general.
In summary, just a few simple goals can be made to help with the impact of domestic violence and prevention of further damage. Always believe the victim, donate to community and nationwide shelters and help centers for the victims, and collaborate as one to achieve a victim-centered approach. Show your support by wearing purple, wearing a purple ribbon, and replace your lights with purple lights on Thursday, October 21.
If you would like further information, please contact the Domestic Violence Advocate at the Mohave County Attorney Victim/Witness Office at (928) 718-4967.
Liz Meins
Mohave County Attorney’s Office/Domestic Violence Advocate
