Eradicate the shadows

Warning: This article may contain content that some people find triggering, distressing or upsetting. The choice of the reader/audience to enter the article may require them to engage in self-care, including seeking help. A list of DV support services is listed at the end of the article.

Six months has passed since the life of our beloved CWM member Kristy Armstrong was tragically taken in an act of domestic violence. In a loving bid determined to honour her – the 24th Australian women to lose her life to DV in 2023, Kristy’s children, loving family and friends dressed in purple for a special remembrance day ceremony in December.

Cycles and repercussions

Domestic violence is a harrowing reality that casts its shadow across countless homes, both in Australia and worldwide. At its core, domestic violence involves the exertion of power and control by one partner over the other within an intimate relationship. This haunting phenomenon manifests in various forms, leaving victims emotionally scarred and societies grappling with its profound repercussions.

The most recognised form of domestic violence is physical abuse, where victims endure acts of violence ranging from slaps to severe beatings. However, this is just the tip of the iceberg; domestic violence also encompasses emotional abuse, financial control, and manipulation. Controlling behaviour, isolation, and constant humiliation can leave victims trapped in a cycle of fear and dependency.

The costs of domestic violence extend far beyond the visible bruises. Families shattered by this pervasive issue endure emotional turmoil, strained relationships, and shattered trust. The toll on children witnessing such horrors can result in long-lasting psychological scars, perpetuating the cycle into future generations. The economic impact is also substantial, as resources are diverted to address the aftermath of domestic violence, from medical expenses to legal proceedings.

Societal cost knows no borders

Australia, like many other nations, grapples with the staggering societal costs of domestic violence. The ripple effects extend to healthcare, law enforcement, and social services. Internationally, this issue is a global concern, with cultural nuances influencing its prevalence. The vicious cycle of domestic violence knows no borders, affecting families from diverse backgrounds.

Memorial softball game

The Orange Softball community will be holding a softball game for anyone to attend in memorial of Kristy Armstrong on January 20. If you’d like to be involved, please hop onto the Facebook event page here.

Event information, tickets, donations and volunteering can all be accessed by the website: Home Base (raisely.com)

Call a helpline

Thankfully, numerous organisations exist to support victims of domestic violence. Resources such as 1800RESPECT and White Ribbon Australia provide assistance and counselling. Internationally, organisations like the National Domestic Violence Hotline in the United States and Refuge in the United Kingdom offer vital support, too.

In conclusion, addressing domestic violence requires collective awareness, education, and commitment. By breaking the silence, supporting victims, and holding perpetrators accountable, societies can strive to eradicate the shadows cast by this pervasive issue, fostering environments where families can thrive free from the shackles of violence – and save the lives of our loved ones.