October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month

In October 1987, the first Domestic Violence Awareness Month was observed, and Congress later designated October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month in 1989.

Domestic violence is prevalent in every community and affects all people regardless of age, socio-economic status, sexual orientation, gender, race, religion, or nationality.

More than 83% (approximately four in five) of American Indian and Alaska Native people have experienced a form of violence in their lifetime – whether it be physical violence and/or psychological aggression from an intimate partner, sexual violence or stalking. According to the National Institute of Justice, more than 1.5 million American Indian and Alaska Native women have experienced violence in their lifetime.

Physical violence is often accompanied by emotionally abusive and controlling behavior, and the devastating consequences can cross generations and last a lifetime.

Kerry and Carla, the Brighter Days Program, provide services to anyone harmed by domestic violence, sexual assault, teen dating violence or stalking.

For assistance, contact Kerry at 715-478-6451 or Carla at 715-478-6452.