Domestic Violence Awareness Month

Hands holding a purple awareness ribbon. Text reads: "Take a Stand against Domestic Violence ... October: Domestic Violence Awareness Month." Clark College logo appears in top-left corner.

Students are spending more time at home during the COVID-19 pandemic. But it may an unsafe situation for students who are targets of domestic violence. October is recognized as Domestic Violence Awareness Month. In the United States, 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men have experienced some form of physical violence by an intimate partner.  

While in remote operations, Clark College has amplified its online services for students who may be victims or witnesses of domestic violence. The Clark College Supports Survivors web page outlines the resources that are available for students.   

“We continue to find ourselves engaged in vital conversations focused on the importance of acknowledging and effectively responding to sexual, gender-based, and intimate-partner violence and harassment,” said Cath Busha, Dean of Student Engagement. “In this spirit, we reaffirm our support of all survivors, as we explore new ways of creating a safer and more caring community that does not tolerate violence of any kind, especially as we learn and work remotely.” 
 
At Clark College, employees are encouraged to make a report when they hear about situations a student may be involved in that includes domestic/dating violence, sexual assault, stalking or sexual misconduct. Students can also make a report on their own behalf. To report instances and access support, visit the Title IX reporting link.  

The Washington State Coalition against Domestic Violence  says domestic violence is a pattern of behavior that one person uses to gain power and control over the other. These behaviors can include: 

  • isolation from friends and family 
  • emotional abuse 
  • monitoring 
  • controlling the finances 
  • physical and sexual assault 

Issues of domestic and dating violence are extremely serious and often difficult to discuss and report. 

“When we play a role and speak out against harmful attitudes and actions, we all help reduce stigma and domestic/dating violence,” said Christina Longo, Director of Compliance at Clark College.  “We must be dedicated to ending violence as a social problem, as we continue to support each individual student and community member in need of resources.” 

Clark College believes all students deserve to be safe. They deserve to be respected and they deserve to be heard.  

This article was written by Clark College Office of Student Affairs.