The Domestic Abuse Resistance Team (D.A.R.T.) of Jackson Parish and local advocate Andrea Martin invite you to remember the victims of domestic violence in our area through the annual Candlelight Vigil that will be held at 6:00 pm on October 8th at the Pentecostals of Jonesboro, located at 1011 South Cooper Avenue. Light refreshments will be served.
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month
Every October, communities across the country recognize Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM). It is a time to bring attention to domestic violence, remember those whose lives have been affected, support survivors, and remind our communities that no one should have to live in fear in their own home.
Domestic violence is not simply a private family matter. It is a community issue that affects individuals, children, families, workplaces, schools, churches, and neighborhoods.
Domestic violence can take many forms. It may include physical violence, emotional or verbal abuse, threats, intimidation, stalking, financial abuse, sexual abuse, isolation, or other behaviors used to gain or maintain power and control over another person.
Sometimes the abuse is visible.
Sometimes it isn’t.
A person may be carrying emotional wounds that no one else can see.
They may be afraid to make a decision without their partner’s approval. They may have their finances controlled. They may be prevented from seeing family and friends. They may constantly worry about making their partner angry.
Domestic violence does not discriminate based on age, race, income, education, occupation, religion, or where someone lives.
It can happen in a large city, a small town, or a rural community.
In rural communities, survivors may face additional challenges, including limited transportation, long distances to services, lack of affordable housing, financial dependence, and concerns about privacy in a close-knit community.
Someone may live only a few miles from a domestic violence resource but still feel miles away from being able to ask for help.
Awareness means learning what abuse looks like.
It means knowing how to respond when someone tells you they are being abused.
It means teaching young people what healthy relationships look like.
It means supporting survivors without blaming them.
It means holding communities accountable for creating environments where abuse is not ignored or excused.
Leaving an abusive relationship can be complicated and, in some circumstances, dangerous. A survivor may be worried about children, housing, transportation, finances, pets, employment, or what their abuser may do if they leave.
Instead of telling someone what they should do, listen and help them connect with people who can provide information and support.
You don’t have to be ready to leave to ask for help
One of the most important messages during Domestic Violence Awareness Month is this:
You don’t have to be ready to leave to reach out for help.
A person can contact a domestic violence advocate simply because they have questions.
They can ask about their options.
They can talk about safety.
They can learn about available resources.
They can have a conversation without deciding about their relationship that day.
Getting information does not mean someone has to leave.
It means they have information.
And information can be powerful.
Our community has a role to play
One community that refuses to remain silent can make a difference.
This October, let’s remember the victims we have lost, stand beside those who are surviving, and work together to create communities where everyone has the opportunity to live safely and free from violence.
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, but our commitment to ending domestic violence should continue all year long.
Andrea Malone
Rural Advocate
DART Jackson Parish Office
(318) 395-8006