Everyone can take steps to end violence against women and their children. Start asking, “Why is he violent?” instead of “Why doesn’t she leave?” Here are some key ways to stop violence in your community:
Don’t ignore violence or tactics of power and control you see in relationships of friends, family or neighbors.
Download a copy of our Power and Control Wheel to help identify common tactics used and spot abuse as it happens. Help victims and offenders get the help they need before it is too late.
Find out about resources in your community for victims and offenders.
Does your community have a shelter for battered women and support groups? Does your community have intervention programs for men who batter? Your state coalition against domestic violence can help you find out. Click here for a list.
Promote alternatives to violence by using nonviolent and non-controlling speech and actions.
Download our Equality Wheel to consider your own actions and see a model for non-controlling relationships.
Help your community start a “coordinated community response” to domestic violence.
When everyone from 911 operators to judges have a plan of agreement of how to appropriately respond, battered women and their children are safer and batterers are held accountable and given opportunities to change. Contact our National Training Project at 866-417-6111, option 1, or visit our training page to learn more about starting a coordinated community response in your community.