Welcome to Domestic Violence Week
- Peace Action Canisius
- Nov 11, 2018
- 2 min read
Maria Welch
What is domestic violence?
“Domestic violence (also called intimate partner violence (IPV), domestic abuse or relationship abuse) is a pattern of behaviors used by one partner to maintain power and control over another partner in an intimate relationship” (The National Domestic Abuse Hotline). This form of abuse can show itself in a multitude of ways, as anyone can be a victim, or perpetrator, of domestic violence regardless of their age, religion, race, sexual orientation, or gender. From verbal to physical abuse, these acts can lead to more serious cases such as stalking, rape, and even murder.
History of domestic violence
Domestic violence has been visible throughout history, but it has not always been recognized as abuse. As early as the 15th century, legal systems in America made it acceptable for a man to beat his wife if she were to commit a offense or even question her husband’s authority over her. But in 1641, the Body of Liberties of the Massachusetts Bay Colonists insisted that married women should be “free from bodily correction or stripes by her husband,” making this act one of the first strides towards the fight against domestic violence in America. Following this act in 1850, Tennessee became the first state in the United States to outlaw wife beating and by early 20th century, it was becoming common for police to investigate domestic abuse, although actual arrests were still rare. By 1920, wife beating became illegal in all states. Finally, during the 1970s women’s movements, women’s rights activists and feminists began using the term “domestic violence” to bring awareness to the harsh reality that abuse was still occurring within relationships around the country. During this time, domestic violence against men was also gaining attention, thus sparking the awareness that we currently have for the issue today.
Why does this issue matter?
Domestic violence happens all around us, whether we notice it or not. It could be happening in our neighbors homes, in our families, homes, or even in our own homes without our realizing. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, over 10 million women and men have reported being a victim of domestic violence and in 2016, the National Domestic Violence Hotline answered 323,669 calls, chats and texts (CNN). These statistics, among hundreds more worldwide, are prevalent enough to recognize that the education and understanding of domestic violence needs to be stressed and taught to communities throughout our country so that we can take steps towards preventing these serious crimes.
What can you do about it?
Look for signs of domestic abuse: threats of violence, excessive jealousy, controlling behavior (insisting on significant other to ask permission before doing anything, interrogations about who you were with and/or talking to, etc.)., expecting significant other to meet his/her every need, forcing their significant other to isolate themselves, hypersensitivity, verbal abuse, and use of force during sex or in times of conflict.
Local outreach programs and emergency abuse shelters:
Catholic Charities Buffalo: (716) 856-4494
Safe Harbors of the Finger Lakes, Inc.: (800) 247-7273
Child and Family Services: (716) 884-6000
Buffalo City Mission Women’s Shelter: (716) 854-8181
Family Justice Center: Hotline (716) 558-7233, Business (716) 558-5261
How to donate:
Informational articles:
Sources:
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