This past week as we have continued to return to some semblance of normalcy under the Stage Three Stay Healthy Order under Governor Little’s Rebound Idaho Strategy, much of our community’s attention has been on human rights vigils in support of the black community and on some other more unsettling and disturbing images of destructive protests and counter-protests—some turning violent.
There is much turbulence in our world right now and this adds to already stressful situations in homes where there are unhealthy power dynamics and abuse happening between partners and to children. We are continuing to see increasing rates of calls to our hotlines and emergency intakes into our shelter.
We know we could not provide the services we do, without the support and generosity of our community and because of your help in spreading the message to those who may be experiencing abuse. You help us get the message out: You are not alone. We are here.
We know that domestic violence affects everyone at every level of our society and anyone can be an abuser. However, statistically there are some very unique challenges faced by minorities, refugees and members of the black community who are victims of domestic abuse and sexual assault.
Our organization has a rich history of gender equality and racial justice work and we are committed to our vision of a community where ALL individuals thrive in safe, healthy relationships, and to that end:
- We are committed to providing ongoing diversity and inclusion training to our staff to ensure the most welcoming and culturally appropriate experience for each client who comes to us.
- We will continue to expand our outreach materials to include language and culturally appropriate offerings.
- We will work to weave the message that all individuals have dignity, worth and value into everything we do.
The WCA offers services to all who have experienced domestic abuse and/or sexual assault regardless of race, color, religion, gender, gender expression, age, national origin, marital status, or sexual orientation—free-of-charge.
Help us spread the word about our services and that we are here for anyone who needs them. One way to do that is to print and hang this poster in the restroom or breakroom at your place of work.
There is no excuse and never a reason for abuse. We are here.
-Bea