Sin by Silence Blog

Voices of Violence: It Could Happen to Anyone

Mar 30th, 2012 In: Voices of Violence By: admin Comments 2

VOICES OF VIOLENCE includes anonymous stories submitted by readers of the Sin by Silence Blog. Click here to submit your story!

………………

I am a survivor of domestic violence. I am an educated, professional woman. If it could happen to me, it could happen to anyone! The reason women are silent about what is happening to them is because it is so humiliating. People always wonder “why they stay.” They stay because they are brainwashed, feel trapped, and love the “good side” of their abuser. Friends, family, even law enforcement and the legal system need to learn about domestic violence, and how it affects the women and children impacted by it. Women are further victimized by their families and the system by being blamed for their own abuse!

When you are in the cycle of abuse, there is an overwhelming feeling of despair, hopelessness and powerlessness. The abuser does all he can to encourage these beliefs. I was actually arrested for battery for spraying my abuser in the face with mace to protect myself! I am not saying that women in a violent relationship have no responsibility. I am saying they are not the primary aggressor and should not be treated as such. The laws need to change, the system needs to change, our collective attitude about domestic violence needs to change. It is human nature to defend yourself against potentially lethal force!!!!!!!!!!!!!