October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month

  • Published
  • By Kaylee Osborne
  • Tinker domestic abuse victim advocate

One in four women and one in seven men will be, or have been, victims of domestic violence.

As the domestic abuse victim advocate, October is always very special to me. As we prepare to enter the month of October, I hope to reach out to as many people as I can and talk about the dynamics of Domestic Violence. Whether you are a friend, family member, or co-worker, you may be interested in learning how you can assist someone in a dangerous relationship.

Domestic violence is a very serious concern in our society. It is the leading cause to injury to women, exceeding car accidents, muggings and rape combined. Every day, more than 3 women in the United States are killed by their intimate partners. Studies show that, annually, more than 10 million U.S. children witness domestic violence of some kind. Not only does it put the family at risk, it also is a great risk to our first responders who work to offer assistance and, unfortunately, can lead to workplace violence as well. This is not just a family problem, it does not always stay behind closed doors and it is up to all of us to use our voices to make a change.

Oklahoma ranks No. 4 in the country for women killed by men, according to the Annual Violence Policy Center Report. These statistics are a striking reality of life. It is important to be informed and know where to get help or where to send someone when help is needed. In an effort to provide this vital information, Family Advocacy will be out and about around base in October to provide this information. We will also be available by request for unit conversations or briefings regarding domestic violence. The intention is to provide everyone with the keys to help someone in need and connect them with services that will support their efforts to survive.

Keep an eye out for Family Advocacy and the DAVA as we will be setting up info booths and presentations throughout the month.

Silent Witness Displays - Silent witnesses are life-size red figures representing individuals who lost their lives to Domestic Violence. They can include women, men and children. They will be displayed at our booths and include a large display in the Medical Group Oct. 23-27.

Information Booths - Family Advocacy will provide manned information booths around base regarding domestic violence and answer any questions you may have.

In the News - Keep an eye out throughout the month for informative articles in this paper.

Story Teller Event – Oct. 25 at 1:30 p.m. at the Tinker Club - Susan Still, a survivor of domestic violence will speak about her more than 20-year marriage and survival of domestic violence, including how her children were affected, how her coworkers helped, her resilience and how she escaped. This event will provide training credit and registration is available in ETMS. It will be open to anyone with base access, limited space available.

Power to Change Class – 5-week class that aims at providing information and education regarding domestic violence, effects to family, coping and recovery.

If you would like to request the Family Advocacy Program to provide a presentation or set up a booth in your area, call 582-6604.