By Rev. Davena Jones
Domestic violence is an unfortunate reality that occurs with in every class, age group, race, and religion. It happens in families, friendships, and intimate relationships. Intimate partner violence happens within same and different sex partnerships; it happens whether people are married, living together, or dating. Approximately one in four women has been a victim of domestic violence. October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month - a time established to draw attention to this unspeakable crime and continue efforts to raise awareness and stop the violence.
Domestic Violence Awareness Month evolved from the first Day of Unity observed in October, 1981 by the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence. The intent was to connect battered women’s advocates across the nation who were working to end violence against women and their children. The Day of Unity soon became a special week when a range of activities were conducted at the local, state, and national levels. In October 1987, the first Domestic Violence Awareness Month was observed. That same year the first national toll-free hotline was begun. In 1989 the first Domestic Violence Awareness Month Commemorative Legislation was passed by the U.S. Congress. Such legislation has passed every year since.
90% of protestant pastors report encountering sexual or domestic violence in their congregations, but only 50% believe they are prepared to respond to it.* If 9 out of 10 pastors will encounter domestic or sexual violence situations at work, then 10 out of 10 pastors must receive training on how to respond. However, only 45% of pastors believe that their seminary training provided sufficient resources to address domestic or sexual violence.
I personally was a result of that 50% of a protestant pastor who was not prepared to response to a young battered woman, with two small children walking into the church doors. The young woman was me in 1995. That day forever changed my life and is the driving force behind my advocacy for those living through and trying to escape Domestic/Intimate Partner Violence. This Public Justice issue is the topic of my Dissertation/Project, with the emphasis towards prevention, response and resources
Throughout the month of October there will be guest speakers to share a story or resources via Zoom. These conversations will be to remember Domestic/Intimate partner victims, support survivors and provide resources for faith communities and pastors. The guest and the zoom links will be shared soon.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bwrsw7wX6uE the link, is information about the Purple Ribbon Council. View this link and see how you can help Break the Silence, Break the Cycle, And Save Lives!
If you have any questions, please contact Rev. Davena Jones at davena@ncncucc.org
