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Scourge Of Domestic Violence Takes Spotlight In October

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The Tampa Tribune

Published: October 5, 2007

October can be an invigorating month. Summer's over, at least judging by the calendar, and we normally get our first cold front of the fall late in the month. And Halloween is always a favorite for children and many adults.

But this month also marks a time to reflect on a societal issue that needs continued focus: domestic violence.

In 1981, the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence set aside a day in October to focus more awareness of this horrible problem. The entire month was designated Domestic Violence Awareness Month six years later, and Congress announced its support in 1989, according to the coalition.

Several events vividly recognizing the damaging effects of domestic violence and sharing compelling stories of survival are being held in Pasco County in conjunction with Domestic Violence Awareness Month. A couple of them already have occurred, including The Clothesline Project at Sunrise of Pasco County's Solutions Thrift Store in Dade City, an effort that features shirts with artwork and stories.

A community awareness fair is planned for the Dade City campus of Pasco-Hernando Community College on Oct. 16, and a law enforcement awards ceremony is scheduled at the Salvation Army West Pasco Corps' Center of Hope in Port Richey starting at noon Oct. 24. In addition, a candlelight vigil will be held on the grounds of Florida Hospital Zephyrhills at 8 p.m. Oct. 25. These are just some of the activities.

Domestic abuse 'is the single major cause of injury to women - more frequently than auto accidents, muggings and rape combined,' according to Sunrise, which provides shelter and other services to victims. The effects can be devastating and far-reaching. For instance, children who grow up in abusive households often become batterers or victims, studies show.

Perhaps you are being abused or know a family or friend gripped by it. Help is available from Sunrise (call (352) 521-3120), law enforcement and other agencies. Victims advocates from Sunrise, the sheriff's office and other agencies in the county are highly trained and compassionate.

Domestic violence also is difficult to discuss, but it's important to do so, especially to impressionable children who need to learn that violence is never the answer. Talking to them now could spare someone else.
Domestic Violence Awareness Month is, indeed, the perfect time to bring this issue to the forefront. Through education, exhibits and accounts of survivors, it's possible to encourage both abusers and victims to get help, and to lessen this disturbing behavior.

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