Our job as advocates is not only to serve people who have been affected by domestic violence and human trafficking and help them find safety and wellness but also to bring information and education to the community at large.
Today, I want to revisit some basic truths about domestic violence. Domestic violence is about power and control. Abusers gain control over their partners in many ways - physically, sexually, emotionally, spiritually, financially, legally - or, usually, a combination of several of these at play.
Victims/survivors of domestic violence are highly vulnerable. Their very bodies are at risk. Victims of domestic violence already lack essential bodily autonomy in most situations, and consent is not present in many of these relationships.
ALL people deserve to make their own decisions about their bodies. ALL people should enjoy the fundamental freedom of selfhood. Many of the people we serve already lack some of that freedom and autonomy. Lack of access to services, healthcare, and resources deepens this well of vulnerability to abusive power.
We want everyone to know that we are here. We will do everything we can to help those who need us stay safe, well, and autonomous in whatever time of need. - To talk to an advocate, please call our 24-hour crisis hotline at 785-843-3333.
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