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October is Domestic Violence Awareness and Prevention month, which evolved, according to the website of the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV) from their "Day of Unity" in October 1981. Their intention was to connect advocates across the United States who were working to end violence against women and their children.
The Day of Unity soon became an entire week devoted to a range of activities conducted at the local, state, and national levels, and in 1987 that week evolved into a month of activities.
For those who wonder what exactly constitutes domestic violence, NCADV defines it as “a pattern of abusive behaviors -- including physical, sexual, and psychological attacks as well as economic coercion -- used by one intimate partner against another (adult or adolescent) to gain, maintain, or regain power and control in the relationship. Batterers use of a range of tactics to frighten, terrorize, manipulate, hurt, humiliate, blame, often injure, and sometimes kill a current or former intimate partner."
The country has come a long way in the nearly 25 years since the grassroots of the domestic violence awareness efforts commenced. But more awareness is needed. One way domestic violence advocates are being helped is with the advent of new technology, specifically wireless phones.
Verizon Wireless, the wireless phone giant, is leading the way to help domestic violence victims throughout the country after they flee dangerous situations through their HopeLine program.
The HopeLine website states “wireless phones and technology can serve as a vital link to emergency or support services in a time of crisis or as a reliable, safe connection to employers, family and friends as survivors rebuild their lives.”