Breaking the silence on domestic violence

To the Editor: When we stay silent, domestic violence thrives. With 1 in 4 Rhode Islanders experiencing domestic violence in their lifetimes, and nearly 1 in 10 Rhode Island high schoolers reporting they have already experienced physical dating violence, we all know loved ones, neighbors and friends who will be or have been impacted by abuse.

This October, National Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM), we continue to call on our communities to break the silence. Each of us must make it our business to speak up when we see or hear something troubling and to have conversations with friends, fam- ily, colleagues, youth, and others in our lives. Whether it be in our workplaces, schools, places of worship, or other community spaces, we can support survivors and their children by raising awareness of the issue and creating environments that do not tolerate domestic violence. There are many ways to get involved. Attend one of the many events throughout the state this month to support local domestic violence agencies who are dedicated to serving victims and their children each and every day. Support the Rhode Island Coalition Against Domestic Violence (RICADV) in the Allstate Foundation Purple Purse Challenge. Like and share our social media posts, and talk to your family and friends about healthy relationships and the warning signs of abuse.

If we each make a commitment to help end domestic violence, just think about the collective impact we can have! No one can do everything, but everyone can do something. Visit nomoreri.org

and follow us on facebook.com/ricadv) Facebook ( to learn more. Together, we can build a safer, more peaceful Rhode Island. No more silence! Sincerely, Deborah DeBare Executive Director, The Rhode Island Coalition Against Domestic Violence