Domestic violence is a pattern of abusive behaviors used to establish power and control over another person through fear and intimidation, often including threats of violence or use of violence. Sexual assault is any kind of unwanted sexual contact, including verbal, emotional and physical acts. Sexual assault can be unwanted sexual comments, touching, penetration of any part of the body. Anyone can be the victim (and a survivor) of domestic violence regardless of their gender (women, men, transgender and intersex), age, race, class, educational, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status or other defining characteristics. All of TESSA's services for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault are confidential.
Domestic violence may include emotional abuse, verbal abuse, physical abuse, or sexual abuse. Physical and sexual abuse, or even threats to commit them, are the most apparent forms of abuse and are often times the actions that make the victim aware of the problem. However, emotional and verbal abuse is just as pervasive as physical and sexual abuse. Regular use of emotional and verbal abuse instills fear and firmly establishes a pattern of intimidation and control in the relationship.
One of the saddest things about domestic violence is that it happens behind the closed doors and inside the fences that are built to keep our family safe. Many people mistakenly believe that domestic violence is a private issue - that they shouldn't interfere if they think that someone is being abused.
It is important to realize that domestic violence is a national epidemic and has reached epidemic proportions in our community and nationwide. Research suggests that it occurs every 15 seconds and claims a woman's life every 21 days. According to a FBI report, domestic violence is the leading cause of injury among women ages 15 to 44.
Domestic violence affects people of all nationalities, sexual orientations, religions, and income levels. Research suggests that it touches one-fourth of American wormen at some point in their lives, and its offenders and victims can be found anywhere. Among the residents of affluent suburbs, the inner city, and small-town America.
Please note these thoughts are those of one courageous individual and that the content does not necessarily reflect any specific TESSA policy. Domestic violence is a complex system of power and control that may look different for different people and families--we acknowledge all people's right to their personal power and respect decisions made by battered women, regardless of those decisions. Our staff would be glad to discuss this letter with you--call us at 719-633-1462.
There are resources for victims of violence and assault in many communities. Domestic violence and sexual assault are serious crimes and survivors have the right to safe, confidential services that may or may not end in legal action. If you need help, our crisis line number is (719) 633-3819 in the United States. To find a program near you, check our links.
