Today, we know more than ever before about the prevalence and effects of domestic and sexual violence. Approximately 1 in 5 young women has experienced sexual violence during their college career, and more than 1 in 3 women has experienced some form of domestic abuse in their lifetimes.  No one is immune: violence is prevalent in all communities, and LGBTQ individuals are also affected. Marginalized communities experience disparities in the criminal justice system, health care, and economics that may create greater vulnerabilities to safety, and yet often are silenced in the development of policies and programs. Our efforts to end violence must include everyone.  

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Every sector should be engaged in helping prevent violence and support survivors. Today, colleges and universities recognize the role they have to play in addressing dating violence and sexual assault. Government agencies and social service organizations understand that the families they serve may be experiencing domestic violence. Business owners are seeing the effects of domestic violence on their workforce. Community-based organizations are considering what they can do to prevent gender-based violence. Foundations and corporate giving programs are wondering what they can do to help. 

 

If you are developing new initiatives to address gender-based violence, or seeking to improve your policies in this area, we can work together to build on both knowledge and innovation. I can help you identify key stakeholders and examine the research and data you need to make a difference.