Stand up against domestic violence
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Each day, the vicious cycle of abuse impacts the lives of thousands of people. Often, when people are experiencing abuse, they feel that there is no way out. Harbor House Domestic Violence Shelter, a division of Personal and Family Counseling Services of the Tuscarawas Valley, is a local organization that is available to assist individuals with breaking the vicious cycle of abuse. Harbor House offers a variety of services, including safe shelter, a 24/7 crisis line, advocacy, case management services, community outreach, individual counseling and an education and support group on the dynamics of domestic violence. These services are aimed at increasing skills necessary to live a lifestyle free from abuse.Abuse involves a lot of power and control and often occurs in phases. The first phase of abuse is the tension-building phase. During this phase, a person may feel as though they are walking on eggshells and may be doing whatever is necessary in order to keep the peace. The next phase of abuse is said to be the explosive phase. During this phase, the abuse often escalates and may include forms of physical, verbal, emotional, financial, and sexual abuse. The other phase of abuse is called the honeymoon phase. During this phase, one might hear apologies for the abuse and also receive gifts as a way to “make up” for the abuse that occurred. Abuse impacts children, families, animals, workplaces and communities.
The unfortunate thing about abuse is that it does not discriminate; it can happen to anyone. Therefore, the community is challenged to stand up against domestic violence.
In recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Harbor House is sponsoring a Purple Ribbon event to increase community awareness on domestic violence. The purple ribbon signifies courage, survival, honor and dedication to ending domestic violence. Although the exact history of the purple ribbon is difficult to pinpoint, families and friends of victims have nationally adopted it to remember and honor their loved ones who have lost their lives at the hands of a person they once loved and trusted. In addition to the demonstration of support for victims and advocates, the display of purple ribbons throughout the community conveys a powerful message that there’s no place for domestic violence in the homes, neighborhoods, workplaces or schools of its citizens. Harbor House staff and volunteers will be traveling around to the different neighborhoods in the Tuscarawas Valley asking for permission to put purple ribbons on trees.
If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, contact Harbor House at 330-364-1374 or 330-343-2778, ext. 210.