Column: Stand against domestic violence
Content Warning: This article will discuss issues of domestic violence and sexual assault. Please reach out to the Counseling Center on campus or another support person if you feel that you need additional support.
I am writing this article as a survivor of extensive past sexual trauma. I feel that it is important that survivors’ voices are heard during months like this.
As we enter the month of October, another increasing epidemic is brought to our attention: domestic violence.
Domestic Violence was already an epidemic before COVID-19 began, but this rapidly increasing health crisis has caused a large increase in incidents of abuse.
Domestic violence is a pattern of behavior used to establish control over a partner. It does not have to be sexual, but it often involves fear, intimidation and abuse, whether physical, mental, or emotional.
Sexual assault is any forced or coerced sexual act without one’s consent.
These staggering figures on abuse should be a reminder for vigilance and empathy:
1 out of 4 women and 1 out of 9 men have been in a violent situation with their partners.
1 in 5 women are survivors of rape.
1 in 4 women and 1 in 6 men were sexually abused before age 18.
While we remain in quarantine and are preparing to come out of it, this is a critical time for survivors. Awareness, education, and intervention are key. Each and every one of us need to advocate for those who have suffered at the hands of domestic violence.
The most important thing for a family member, friend or bystander to remember is that you do not have to be a doctor or a counselor, you do not have to be an expert; you just need to be there for the person.
Listen to the survivor without judgement and remind them that you believe them. Ask them how you can help and support their decisions.
If you are a survivor of Domestic Violence or Sexual Assault, a phenomenal resource in our area to reach out to is the Cumbee Center. They may be reached at their 24-hour hotline, 803-649-0480.
