Get Involved. October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month

Domestic violence is a crime that often lives in silence. It’s only when people take a stand in their communities that the crime will come to an end. The month of October has been designated Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and it lends the perfect opportunity for everyone to get involved. Here is what you can do to help end the cycle of intimate partner violence.

1. Donate Your Money or Time

You can make a monetary donation to a local domestic violence shelter or group in your community. You may also be able to donate your time. No amount of either is insignificant in the fight to end domestic violence.

2. Wear Purple

Purple is the adopted color of Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Educate yourself about the crime and wear purple. You can wear a ribbon or pin one to your bag. No matter how you show the world your purple, be prepared to answer questions and provide information.

3. Speak Out

Domestic violence is a crime of opportunity. Abusers prey upon their victims, believing they will be too scared to speak out. Too often, loved ones feel that domestic abuse is a personal matter and they choose to “stay out of it.” Don’t be that person. In many cases, the victim cannot defend or stick up for themselves and need a trusted loved one to speak out on their behalf. Never be afraid to get involved — you may be someone’s only hope.

4. Help a Victim

It is an unfortunate truth that victims of domestic violence often feel as if they have nowhere to turn. Abusers typically control finances and may even prevent victims from leaving the home. If you believe that a friend or family member is being abused, ask. If you discover that they are being abused, be a source of assistance. Do the legwork required to get your loved one out of their current situation, and then be ready to help them escape.

5. Call The Hotline

You don’t have to be a victim to call a hotline. Consider calling your local domestic violence helpline for more information on how you can be a source of assistance to your community. You may be able to help in ways you haven’t considered. If you don’t have a local hotline, you can call 1-800-799-SAFE, the national helpline.

Domestic violence is a crime that affects the victim, other members of the household and the people they love. And because of the perceived “embarrassing” nature of the crime, it often goes unreported. Consider becoming a vocal advocate in your community. It is only when we all act together to put an end to this crime that victims will have a collective voice.

If you or a loved one is a victim of domestic violence or intimate partner abuse in Orlando, reach out to our experienced team of attorneys. We are here to assist you in any way we can. Call today to schedule an appointment for a case evaluation.

About the Author
Andrew Nickolaou, Esq., B.C.S., is a founding partner at Bernal-Mora & Nickolaou, P.A. He practices almost exclusively in divorce, marital and family law. Andrew and his partner, Ophelia Bernal-Mora, Esq., B.C.S., joined forces in March 2016 to form the unique and boutique husband and wife family law team at Bernal-Mora & Nickolaou, P.A. Together, Andrew and Ophelia take a practical and team-based approach to all of their cases and clients to deliver the highest quality experience and representation.
Andrew Nickolaou

Andrew Nickolaou, Esq., B.C.S., is a founding partner at Bernal-Mora & Nickolaou, P.A. He practices almost exclusively in divorce, marital and family law. Andrew also handles record expungements and sealings. If you have questions about this article, contact Andrew today by clicking here.