Social Justice Tuesday: Domestic Violence Awareness

I’ve been focused on breast cancer this month, both because it’s breast cancer awareness month, so everything is pink, and because my mother has breast cancer. Pretty legit reasons, I think, but it has been at the cost of any level of engagement with the other big cause being addressed in October: Domestic Violence. Before October ends I recommend you head over to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence website where they have tons of links and resources. They have some fantastic fact sheets that are organized via topic (everything from Dating Violence to Immigrant Victims to Workplace) and another set organized by state so you can find out the laws and statistics in your neighborhood. They also do lots of legislative work, and have a great webpage where you can go and find out the best ways to influence policy. And they have a great take action section where you can donate a car, an old cell phone, cash, or volunteer your time to help battered women and children. If you’re looking for some more Jewish sources and resources having to do with domestic violence, check out the Jewish Women International website where you can register for a conference call about Parental Alienation Syndrome: What does it Matter for Battered Women and their Children? JWI also is working on a legal project “designed to educate abused women and their advocates about the legal system and the resources available to help confront and escape domestic abuse. On this Legal Project Website you will find the latest information on protective orders, civil divorce, Jewish divorce (get), custody and visitation, and many other legal subjects, with links to your individual state laws.” Pretty awesome, right? I’m also a big fan of Shalva, a Chicago organization that provides 24 hour services and support for Jewish women who are facing domestic abuse. Visit their minimalist website here. And in case you were wondering the official ribbon color for domestic abuse is purple which will go really well with the pink one you’re already wearing.