Honoring Every Path to Safety: Uplifting Survivor Voices and Redefining Justice
Each October, we recognize Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM), a time to raise awareness, honor survivors, and strengthen our shared commitment to ending domestic violence in all its forms at YWCA Evanston/North Shore.
This year, we’re highlighting everyday survivors who’ve found justice and safety, underscoring the resilience and determination of those who have experienced abuse and taken steps toward empowerment. It’s necessary that we honor survivors who have found security for themselves and their families, whether through leaving an abusive situation, seeking legal protection, accessing supportive services, or simply finding moments of peace and stability in daily life.
According to the CDC, 47.3% of all women in the United States have reported experiencing contact sexual violence, physical violence, or stalking by an intimate partner in their lifetimes. For non-Hispanic Black women, this number is even higher, 53.6%. The CDC also finds that lesbian women (56.3%), gay men (47.7%), bisexual women (69.3%), and bisexual men (46.1%) face high rates of violence. There are many survivors among us and their stories aren’t uniform.
It’s important to recognize that safety and justice look different for every survivor.
For some, these may involve rebuilding life after leaving an abusive situation or engaging with the legal system. For others, safety might mean developing a personalized safety plan, securing emotional support, or finding ways to stay safe while remaining in a situation or relationship. There is no single path, and leaving is not always a safe or viable option.
By celebrating the many ways survivors seek and define safety and justice, we also acknowledge the ongoing need for comprehensive, trauma-informed support at every stage of the journey. Our role as advocates, community members, and service providers is to make sure that survivors have access to the resources they need without judgment or expectation.
Domestic Violence Awareness Month is a reminder that change is possible, and that communities play a vital role in supporting survivors and preventing abuse. Together, we can work toward a future where every person has the opportunity to live free from violence and fear.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, help is available. Contact 847-864-8780 or (toll-free) 877-718-1868 anytime, day or night or visit our Survivor Services info page.