Healing to Action’s Post

🌟 Remembering Loretta Moore: Advocating Against Domestic Violence 🌟 "Why doesn’t she just leave?" This is a common yet profoundly misguided question when it comes to abusive situations. The tragic story of Loretta Moore, a freshman at the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine in 1993, highlights the complexities and dangers of trying to escape domestic violence. Loretta, a bright and aspiring future doctor, faced relentless abuse from her partner. Despite her courageous efforts to seek protection through legal channels, the system failed her. On March 28, 1994, after a series of escalating threats and violent incidents, Loretta was brutally murdered by her partner, who then took his own life. This heartbreaking event underscores the urgent need for a societal shift in how we view and handle domestic violence. As a medical student nominated among 200 of my peers, I reflect on the resilience and challenges faced by many to reach this point. Along my journey, I have seen firsthand the ugly realities caused by domestic violence. This personal connection fuels my commitment as the Co-founder and CEO of MedEd Cloud to support and empower future generations of healthcare professionals to not only be advocates for themselves but to pick up on signs of domestic violence and provide support to those in need. Gloria Martin of the Family Refuge Center poignantly wrote about Loretta’s ordeal, emphasizing that instead of questioning why women don't leave, we must ask why abusers inflict such terror and why society often blames the victim. We must advocate for a community that unequivocally supports and protects those seeking to escape violence. Domestic violence survivors face numerous barriers—financial instability, lack of affordable housing, societal judgment, and emotional trauma, to name a few. Many women leave, only to face even greater danger. It's time we, as a society, ensure they have the support and protection they need. We cannot bring Loretta Moore back, but we can honor her memory by pledging to prevent such tragedies. Let's create a community where abuse is not tolerated and survivors are believed, supported, and helped to find safety and freedom. Join me in remembering Loretta Moore and in committing to a future free of domestic violence. #DomesticViolenceAwareness #SupportSurvivors #RememberingLorettaMoore

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a time to confront a heartbreaking reality that affects millions of lives. 1 in 4 women and 1 in 9 men experience severe intimate partner violence, according to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV). On a typical day, domestic violence hotlines receive over 19,000 calls, approximately 13 calls per minute. Survivors of domestic violence often endure lasting trauma, and many face barriers when seeking help, including fear of retaliation, financial dependence, and lack of resources. But we can change this. By raising awareness, educating ourselves, and supporting survivors, we can break the silence and empower those affected by domestic violence to seek help and safety. Let’s come together to build a future free from violence. Here’s how you can help: Learn to recognize the signs. Support local shelters and advocacy groups. Be a voice for those who are too afraid to speak. Domestic violence is not just a private issue—it’s a community issue. Let's act. #DomesticViolenceAwareness #EndTheSilence #SupportSurvivors

The Centre welcomes the Federal Government’s focus on addressing online harm as a tactic to end gendered and family violence but says it’s just part of the solution and frontline service collaboration and funding is essential to embedding respectful relationship education in communities. “A child’s worldview is shaped by the violence they see, hear and experience each day in their homes and online. This becomes their norm, and parents face a huge battle in trying to monitor, unpack and shape their understanding of the content they are exposed to," says the Centre's CEO Deb Tsorbaris. “The best solution is working with kids to create generational change. We can’t end violence without understanding and responding to the profound impact family violence has on children’s perception and understanding of the world,” she says. Research shows the need for targeted, evidence-based services for children and families that provide the right intervention for children at the right time. "There are some outstanding services already in Victoria that work with children who use violence and have been exposed to violence. We need family violence services and child, youth and family services to work together to understand what’s working and to scale those programs." Read more at https://lnkd.in/gJwm8iY4

As discussed over the past day by Women's Agenda, Kate Fitz-Gibbon and Silke Meyer. There continues to be no real clear committment as to how we will see what support and action is going to be taken to keep children safe from Family Violence. Nationwide, we see Family Violence responses centred around adult victims and perpetrators with many services having limited or no funding to adequately address the safety of children and young people. They are continued to be thrown under the banner of victim with no individualised considering for their own personal circumstances and experiences of violence. Social commentary has been largely more interested in blanket statements around men's role in society, accusations that women will exploit funding for Family Violence supports to further discriminate men. All while children and young people are left suffering from abuse and let down by a fight over which parent is at fault. I am yet to see any evidence around where the drastically underfunded and inadequate Child Protection responses sit within the large increase in Family Violence funding where every family is affected by Family Violence and where children's voices continue to be lost and there is no consequence for the lack of perpetrator accountability.

Let's confront the stark reality: intimate partner fatalities surged by 29% between 2021 and 2022 in NYC. This isn't just a number—it's a heartbreaking truth we must face together. Despite strides in reducing other homicides, intimate partner violence persists. Shockingly, in Brooklyn alone, it soared by 225%, and in the Bronx, by 57%. The safety of New Yorkers is paramount. URI stands firm in our resolve to break the cycles driving intimate partner violence and homelessness. We urge our government partners to prioritize investments in youth violence prevention, community-centered solutions for domestic violence, and rehabilitation programs for people who cause harm. We have the tools, knowledge, and determination to end domestic violence and homelessness. There's no excuse for increased domestic violence fatalities when we have the means to stop this crisis. Hear more from Tamaris Perez Princi, LCSW, MBA, Director of URI's Westchester Abusive Partner Intervention Program (APIP) and access our Blueprint for Change: Ending Cycles of Gender-Based Violence & Homelessness for actionable steps: https://bit.ly/3tHQJVe Join us at BPHA Caucus Weekend for our Workshop Panel hosted by Senator Julia Salazar on Feb 17th, 2:15pm in 104A LOB: "Innovations in Trauma-Informed Accountability: Transforming Harm into Healing in Domestic Violence". #BlueprintForChange #CaucusWeekend2024 #EndHomelessness #EndDomesticViolence

"Empowering Change: A Call to Eradicate Domestic Violence" Domestic violence, an insidious issue affecting diverse individuals, demands our unwavering attention. Behind closed doors, countless suffer in silence, enduring the scars inflicted by those closest to them. It's time to break the silence and unite in creating a society free from the chains of abuse. Unbound by age, gender, or socio-economic status, domestic violence permeates all layers of our communities. It extends beyond the immediate victims, creating a ripple effect that touches us all. It is not a private matter; it is a societal concern requiring a collective response. To combat domestic violence effectively, it's crucial to understand its multifaceted nature. Beyond physical harm, it encompasses emotional, psychological, and financial abuse, creating a cycle that's challenging to break. As a society, we must offer support and resources to empower those trapped in this cycle. Education plays a pivotal role in eradicating domestic violence. By raising awareness and teaching healthy relationship dynamics, we equip individuals to identify and address abusive behaviors. Early intervention is key, preventing the perpetuation of violence across generations. Workplaces can contribute significantly to creating safe environments for those facing domestic violence. Implementing supportive policies and providing tools for victims to seek help without fear of repercussions fosters a culture of empathy and understanding. Legal frameworks must evolve to protect victims effectively. Stricter enforcement of restraining orders, improved access to legal aid, and initiatives to hold abusers accountable are essential steps. Strengthening the legal response sends a clear message that domestic violence will not be tolerated. Support organizations are lifelines for those navigating the challenges of abuse. They offer counseling, shelter, and resources to help survivors rebuild their lives. Collaboration between governments, nonprofits, and the private sector can amplify the impact of these organizations, creating a network of support spanning communities. Ending domestic violence requires a collective effort. Let's amplify the voices of survivors, raise awareness, and advocate for policies that protect the vulnerable. By fostering a society that rejects abuse, we pave the way for a future where everyone can live free from the fear of violence. It's time to empower change and build a world where compassion triumphs over cruelty. #EndDomesticViolence #BreakTheSilence #empowerchange

Did you know that JFS offers a discreet haven for Jewish women experiencing abuse? Shalom Bayit, meaning "peace in the home," provides compassionate, confidential and anonymous support for women navigating the complexities of abuse. Whether it's verbal, emotional, physical, financial, sexual or spiritual/religious abuse, the program stands as a pillar of support. Here's what makes Shalom Bayit shine: 🤝 Comprehensive Support: From crisis counseling to long-term therapeutic sessions, Shalom Bayit offers a range of services tailored to each woman's journey. 🔍 Advocacy and Awareness: Our dedicated counselors not only provide support but also advocate for our clients' rights and raise awareness about intimate partner abuse in the community. 📈 Growing Impact: Last year, Shalom Bayit counselors supported over 40 clients, marking a remarkable 40% increase from previous years. In a world where every voice matters, Shalom Bayit stands as a beacon of hope, ensuring that no woman faces abuse alone. Let's continue to spread awareness and support those in need.

In 'Our National Crisis: Violence Against Women & Children', Kate Fitz-Gibbon explains why violence against women and children is not a series of isolated incidents but a pervasive, systemic issue. The impacts of this violence on individuals, families and communities are wide-ranging and can be long-term. Addressing domestic, family and sexual violence requires a national effort across the full spectrum of prevention, early intervention, response, and recovery and healing. Tinkering with any one part of the system will not deliver the transformative outcomes so critically needed to improve safety for the countless women and children impacted by violence. Our next month in our In The National Interest series. Be part of the discussion. https://lnkd.in/gjMkBNmn

As many as 57% of all homeless women report domestic violence (DV) as the immediate cause of their homelessness — but how often is that reality reflected in news coverage? BMSG's latest news analysis, supported by Blue Shield of California Foundation, examines how domestic violence and California’s housing crisis appear in the news. Further, the report draws insights from our findings to provide recommendations to advocates looking to elevate the connection between domestic abuse and housing insecurity. Read the full report: https://ow.ly/XU1B50S2pOU.

The President has recognized this week as Community Violence Awareness Week (Feb. 5-Feb. 9). What is Community Violence? According to the CDC, "Community violence happens between unrelated individuals, who may or may not know each other, generally outside the home. Examples include assaults or fights among groups and shootings in public places, such as schools and on the streets. Research indicates that youth and young adults (ages 10-34), particularly those in communities of color, are disproportionately impacted." I say Community Violence, is the subsequent result of domestic and intimate partner violence. It's the result of poverty. It's the result of racism. If we are not addressing intimate partner and domestic violence alongside community violence, we are doing a disservice to the community members impacted by it all. #intimatepartnerviolence #domesticviolence #domesticviolenceawareness #communityviolence #gunviolence