While most people look forward to big sporting events for the love of the game, the energy, and the celebration, there is another side to these large-scale events that often goes unnoticed. For survivors of domestic violence and for individuals experiencing human trafficking, this time can be especially difficult.
According to American Addiction Centers:
In 2016, alcohol caused approximately 90,000 domestic violence deaths worldwide.
Alcohol or drug use is involved in 40-60% of domestic abuse situations.
More than half of individuals who abuse their elder parents (age 60 or older) are dependent on alcohol or drugs . . .
As the holiday season approaches, many of us look forward to warmth, family gatherings, and celebration. But for countless survivors of domestic violence, this time of year brings heightened fear and instability.
The reality is that domestic violence often escalates during the holidays.
In many Latino communities, the value placed on family is deep-rooted. Because of this, separating from a partner, even in an abusive situation, can feel like betrayal or failure. Family members often romanticize stories of men who relentlessly pursued women until they “made them theirs.”.
Social distancing and quarantine may prevent the spread of a disease, but going home to a violent relationship may not be the safest option for survivors. We’ve compiled a list of things to consider if you or a loved one is in an unsafe relationship, and are experiencing the impact of the COVID-19 outbreak.
At La Casa we do everything we can to be a safe haven for survivors. But we also know that many survivors rely on their friends and family for support -- healing, and the work to end domestic violence, is something that starts in our own communities. Here are 4 hard converations you might have to support survivors within your community, and how you can handle them.
Violence impacts everyone — and a solution to end domestic violence is one that includes all people including those who have caused harmed. Sunny Schwartz, founder of the nationally-recognized Resolve To Stop The Violence Project (RSVP) in San Francisco, sat down with us to chat about restorative justice, empowering survivors, and community accountability.
Strong legislation is necessary to ensure all survivors have access to the resources and support they might need as they make the best decisions for themselves. Meet Yasmin: a former La Casa de las Madres Case Manager who is now working with the National Network to End Domestic Violence. She told us about how she’s using her experience as a fierce advocate to push for truly survivor-centered legislation.
La Casa de las Madres believes that empowering survivors means giving them the tools and resources to make the best financial decisions for themselves. We sat down with Alex to learn more about his background, the approach he takes to his economic empowerment workshop series for survivors, and why he believes financial empowerment is significant.
