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Everyone can help

Editor:

October is the 30th anniversary of Domestic Violence Awareness Month and the 20th anniversary of the Christina House Domestic Violence Program.

While we’ve made great strides to address this rampant issue (through legislation like the Violence Against Women Act, programs that help support survivors and victims of abuse, and efforts to teach young people about healthy relationships), there’s still so much work to be done. While violence against women can feel like an insurmountable issue, it’s not. There are things that we can all do to help chip away at the problem–during Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and every day of the year.

Be a change maker in your community.

Teens: Learn about domestic violence and how it can happen in dating relationships too. Speak up when you see bullying behavior in dating relationships.

Parents: Model respectful behaviors at home. Teach your children about healthy relationships early. Let them know they can talk to you about their relationships and friendships. Don’t tolerate bullying behaviors if you see them in your children.

Educators: Encourage healthy friendships and relationships. Implement a healthy relationship program at your school. It’s never too young to talk about healthy relationships.

Healthcare Professionals: Ask the question every time, with every patient, in private: “Do you feel safe at home?” Then be ready to listen and refer.

Neighbors: Be open to conversations about domestic violence. Be alert to signs that something is wrong. Make the call to 911 if the situation turns violent. Don’t turn your back.

Everyone: Take a stand. Say, “No More.”

Together we can make a difference every day. You can begin by attending our Purple Door Breakfast at 8 a.m. Oct. 5. This free breakfast is at St. George Social Hall, 278 W. High St., Lisbon. Our theme is Kids “Behind the Purple Door.” Come, learn, and stand with us. To RSVP for the Breakfast call 330-420-0845 or email nostick@ccregional.org by Oct. 2.

Nickie Ostick,

Outreach Coordinator

The Christina House DV Program

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