October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The National Resource Center for Domestic Violence reports that on average, 24 people per minute are victims of rape, physical violence or stalking by an intimate partner in the United States.
Over the course of a year, that equals more than 12 million women and men. In 2013, more than 64,000 domestic violence offenses were reported in New Jersey.
More than 80 percent of women who experience rape, stalking or physical violence by a partner report serious impacts such as symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). A woman is more likely to be killed by a spouse or an intimate acquaintance than by a stranger. On Oct. 22, I encourage you to wear or display purple to raise awareness, show your solidarity with survivors and their families and take a stand against domestic violence. Domestic violence knows no barriers — it doesn’t discriminate against ethnicities, income or geography. Survivors often hide the truth to family or friends or co-workers. There is no reason to hide. If you’re a survivor, escape domestic violence. There are many available resources for those needing help. The first step is to stop hiding.
If you feel like you’re in danger, call 911. Or contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233.
Nancy Pinkin Middlesex County Assemblywoman