Domestic Violence
Domestic Violence awareness month aims to educate, protect citizens
by Renee Fite
City of Stilwell Director of Public Relations and Media
Every October, the community recognizes domestic violence awareness and prevention. It is an opportunity to look at what domestic violence really is, and ways professionals are educating citizens and rescuing victims.
Help In Crisis also helps victims become victors over circumstances and choices.
ABOVE: Mayor Jean Ann Wright signs a citation declaring October Domestic Violence Prevention Month in Stilwell. From left are: Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Advocate Sherri Kuhnel, Director of Sexual Assault Services Michelle Rye, Mayor Wright, and Forensic Interviewer/Domestic Violence Advocate Chandra Hudson.
Photo by Renee Fite
When people think about domestic violence the first idea often considered is that victims were beaten and physically abused.
In fact, some people have died from domestic violence who have never been hit. Just what is domestic violence?
Domestic violence, also known as intimate partner violence, occurs between people in an intimate relationship. It can take many forms, including emotional, sexual, and physical abuse, as well as threats of abuse. Domestic violence can happen to anyone, but it is most often directed toward women. It is also all about power and control, said Help In Crisis Director of Sexual Assault Services Michelle Rye.
“We are here, and we are here to help. If you see us out doing events, stop in and tell us your story and help us by educating the community. 1 in 3 women and 1 in 9 men will experience domestic violence at some point in their life,” Rye said.
All of Help In Crisis’ services are free of charge.
“We aren’t here to tell you to leave, we are here to help you get safe,” said Rye.
“We will be hosting our annual Glow Stick Walk for domestic violence. We will set up at the bandstand on the Courthouse lawn and have a band, games for kids, water and hotdogs,” Rye said.
“We will be walking at dark with our purple glowsticks. Each lap we walk represents the number of times it takes a victim to leave.”
Also, they will hosted a “Chalk the Walk” on in October, at Fletcher Park. “Just getting out there and putting positive sayings on the sidewalks. You will also see stats for domestic violence as well,” she said.
Help In Crisis is a non-profit agency that helps victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking.
“We assist in protective orders, court advocacy, emergency shelter, peer counseling, and domestic violence classes. We also do forensic interviews on children and offer parenting classes,” she said.
How do they help people being victimized who want help but don't know how to ask?
“We blitz the town with our information. We appreciate when their friends call us, but we need them to reach out to us. We have a 24/7 hotline, and advocates on standby. We make resources available,” she said.
How do they encourage women who keep returning to abusive men?
“We tell victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking that if they return to their abusers, we are here when they are ready. We safety plan with them and make sure they have all the resources available if needed,” said Rye.
Citizens are encouraged to show support for Domestic Violence prevention.
“As a community, wear purple on Thursdays to show your support. It takes a village” said Rye.
You can contact Rye at 918 575-9825.
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City of Stilwell, Oklahoma
Address: 20 S. 1st St., Stilwell, OK 74960
Phone:
918-696-7143
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