October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month
43% of Native American women directly experience Domestic Violence (DV) or Intimate Partner Violence (IPV). It happens to elders and to girls as young as 11. It happens to men and boys. Even if you have never experienced it, it affects all of us. You know someone who has experienced it. DV contributes to higher crime rates, mental and physical health problems, unemployment, and substance abuse. The effects on children, even unborn babies, last a lifetime.
This month there are community events to help us be aware of how Domestic Violence affects us all. SRR Community and Family Services has a Clothesline T-Shirt display in our front windows. (110 First St, Smith River) We have free pins, pencils, and information about Domestic Violence. On Thursday, Oct. 11th, 6-7:30 pm, we are hosting our 2nd Annual DV Awareness Candlelight Vigil (and Walk, weather permitting) at Howonquet Hall, Smith River. This is a time of learning, showing support for DV survivors in our community, and making it clear we will not tolerate Domestic Violence!
For more DV information, contact CFS at (707) 487-2089, or Judith at (707) 487-9255 x3134.