MEDIA CONTACT: Megan Finnern, 989-798-6905, [email protected]
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 28, 2021 – Each year, advocates, survivors, and supporters recognize October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM). This October, the South Carolina Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault (SCCADVASA) is partnering with the National Network to End Domestic Violence (NNEDV) and other state and territorial coalitions across the nation to start a coordinated national conversation about domestic violence and how we can all contribute to changing the narrative on this overshadowed, but fundamental topic.
More prevalent than most realize, one in four women and one in seven men will experience domestic violence in their lifetimes. And according to the VPC’s annual When Men Murder Women study, S.C. has ranked as one of the most dangerous states for women since the first report was published in 2002. In truth, anyone, regardless of gender, race, sexual identity or orientation, or socio-economic status, can become a victim of domestic violence and this year’s campaign theme, #Every1KnowsSome1, strives to highlight how common domestic violence is and that it is more than physical violence.
In addition to raising awareness, SCCADVASA is encouraging individuals and businesses to find their own individual piece of the puzzle to bring peace to survivors of domestic and sexual violence through its annual Peace by Piece campaign.
“The epidemic of violence that creates cascading impacts of harm in our communities is not inevitable.” said Sara Barber, Executive Director of SCCADVASA. “And all of us hold a piece of the puzzle in building an effective framework of prevention. This DVAM, we urge everyone to reflect upon, and determine, which piece you hold — because we all know someone who’s been impacted by domestic violence.”
Throughout October, SCCADVASA and NNEDV will be sharing content on their social media channels to help raise awareness and educate the public on the complex dynamics of domestic violence. A week of action is planned for October 18 – 24, 2021 to engage advocates, partners, and the public in starting a national conversation.
With the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic continuing to magnify the trauma and obstacles experienced by survivors of domestic violence, remember that free and confidential help is available 24/7. Those seeking help may their local S.C. victim service provider for assistance or the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1.800.799.SAFE (7233).
To find your local service provider or to learn more about SCCADVASA and ways to support survivors visit www.sccadvasa.org.
About SCCADVASA: The South Carolina Coalition Against Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault (SCCADVASA) serves as the collective voice promoting the prevention of domestic violence and sexual assault in South Carolina. Our vision is a South Carolina free from domestic violence and sexual assault. Our statewide coalition is made up of the 22 sexual assault and domestic violence direct service and advocacy programs in South Carolina and other allied organizations. Since 1981, SCCADVASA has been a leader in representing the critical needs of survivors and their families. Our dedicated staff advance our work through advocacy, education, and collaboration. Learn more at www.sccadvasa.org.
