Campaign Targets Family Violence in Latino Community
July 06, 2006
Contact: Todd Harper
Phone: 317-630-7808
Pager: 317-310-5972
Indianapolis, July 6, 2006 – It is estimated that around the world at least one woman in every three has been beaten, coerced into sex, or otherwise been abused in her lifetime. Most often the abuser is a member of her own family. While victims of family violence are often women and children, there are also men who are physically and emotionally abused by their partners. Family violence impacts people in all communities, regardless of age, gender, social class, race, religion or nationality.
Wishard Health Services, through funds provided by St. Margaret’s Hospital Guild, is encouraging the public to take off the mask of silence on family violence. Today, July 6, Wishard Health Services and its Hispanic Health Resources program unveiled a new Latino family violence awareness campaign that is specifically aimed at educating the public about family violence and this growing epidemic. The campaign titled “Take off the Mask of Silence” was announced today at Pecar Health Center, one of eight Wishard Health Services community health centers located throughout Indianapolis.
“Family violence affects everyone. It is critical that we educate the public about this terrible problem and provide resources so victims of family violence can break the cycle of abuse and suffering,” said Gloria King, director of Multicultural Affairs at Wishard Health Services. “There are several tools available to the public that offer counseling, advice and protection for those impacted by family violence. The key is making sure the public knows how to access these services.”
The exact number of domestic violence incidents that occur each year is difficult to determine because in many cases the victim of the abuse is afraid to report the crime for a variety of reasons. Family violence comprises domestic violence, sexual assault and child abuse. It not only involves physical abuse, but also verbal and emotional abuse, which can result in serious and devastating consequences.
In addition, family violence creates a hostile environment which can have destructive emotional and physical effects on children. Studies show that men who witness domestic violence as children are twice as likely to abuse their own partners and children as those who did not witness domestic violence.
The “Take off the Mask of Silence” campaign will educate the Latino community about family violence through public service announcements, educational brochures and a grassroots effort. Wishard hopes this innovative campaign will help to end the cycle of destruction, pain, suffering and fear associated with family violence.
“The main goal is to bring this important issue to the forefront and make sure the public has the proper information to get the help they need,” King explained.
There is help out there for victims of family violence. Local law enforcement and legal aid agencies, shelters and counseling services are available to help victims of family violence. Please call 2-1-1 to learn about these and other services available to help victims of family violence. 2-1-1 is a national number that links the caller to health and human services information such as housing, employment, legal and counseling services.