The Longmont Leader accepts contributions, photos, and op-eds for publication from community members, business leaders and public officials on local topics. Publication will be at the discretion of the editor and published opinions do not represent the views of The Longmont Leader or its staff. To submit a contribution, email [email protected].
To the Silent Victims and Witnesses:
The recent fatal intimate partner violence in Longmont showed us once again how the aftershocks of violence ripple through family, friends, co-workers and the
community.
Safe Shelter& Outreach of St. Vrain Valley, our local domestic violence intervention program, has responded to more than a thousand calls for information
or help this year and our advocates have worked intensively with more than 200 individuals to help them obtain housing, counseling, services for their children,
financial, and legal support.
But we know that in our community there are hundreds more victims and witnesses of intimate violence than those who seek help. In a 2015 study done on the
incidence and prevalence of domestic violence by the Centers for Disease Control, the National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey found that “in 80% of intimate partner victimizations, the victim did not receive assistance from victim service agencies.”
Their reasons for not seeking help are many: “I don’t want to butt into someone’s private business”, “The hurt was only words”, “They promised it would never
happen again”, “I provoked the attack”, “It’s really an alcohol problem, not domestic violence”, “Where would I go?”, “They’re a respected professional. Nobody will believe me”, “Domestic violence services are just for women”, “My partner has the money”, “My parents would be so ashamed”, “Domestic violence
programs are for straight people”, “My parents will say ‘I told you so’”, “The Scriptures say a wife should submit to her husband”, ad infinitum.
Most of us know someone who has been affected by domestic violence. There is help for the silent witnesses, the abused and for those who want to stop abusing. Thanks to the support we receive from the community, the experts at Safe Shelter are available 24/7 to offer information about how to find help and to offer those who are being abused confidential services and support as they look for safety. We are waiting for your call.
Constance Platt
(303) 772-0432 (English) 720-273-6032 (Spanish)
Constance Platt is president of the Board of Directors of Safe Shelter and Outreach of St.Vrain Valley
