This content was originally published by the Longmont Observer and is licensed under a Creative Commons license.
On March 30, 2020, our DA Michael Dougherty issued a press release informing victim of Domestic Violence where to get help. I wanted to personally reach out to victims in Boulder County. Nothing is more important than the safety of you and your children. I know how scary it is to leave with nothing but know you are not alone, and you do not have to live your life in fear. Abusers are very good at creating illusions and when you might be scared or feel threatened having to face uncomfortable changes is more than difficult. Recently in the news the headlines detailed the decision of the family courts to remove a child from a Covid-19 Emergency Doctor while the doctor was fighting to save lives. That decision was one judge’s decision that decision is temporary. In the United States of America, we currently have 30,000 state judges and in the Family Court System what one judge perceives to be the "best interest of a child" can be overruled by another judge in the same courthouse. Whenever a publication prints a story about how abusers use the Family Court Systems to try to maintain full control over another spouse using a child it helps victims of Domestic Violence because one of the reasons not to leave is having the courage to face a judge and ask for resources and custody. We victims of Domestic Violence have been brutally re-victimized by the Family Court System, not all judges rule in favor of drastic measures.
I survived several years of abuse and since leaving which was very difficult, I walked into a kind loving relationship which is not based on illusions. I can tell you that big leap out the door was the hardest. Love is not about one party making all the decisions, keeping all the assets nor threatening you nor harming you in anyway, especially it those threats involve your relationship with your children in anyway. Nobody can own you or take away your independence - deep down Domestic Violence is bullying. This pandemic has already disrupted your life and the life of your children, so I know it’s scary but please consider asking for help. If your abuser threatens you with statements "I'll keep the children from you if you leave" they are truly suffering from the "I am King" illusion and I can tell you once you find the strength to pick up that phone and ask for help you already broke free. Your just one call away! If you are in danger call 911. Below is a list of agencies that support victims of Domestic Violence daily and they are waiting for your call. Asking for help is the first step.
Domestic Violence Hotline - 1-800-799-7233.
Rose Andom Center - (720) 337-4400
St Vrain Shelter 24-Hour Crisis Line: 303-772-4422
Sincerely,
Judi-Beth Atwood
Longmont, CO
