In October, Tallahassee’s Domestic Violence Coordinating Council (DVCC) amps up its efforts to provide information and awareness during the month-long observance of Domestic Violence Awareness Month.  

“The council is sharing information and stories of inspiration from survivors as well as warning abusers that they will be prosecuted,” said Kelly O’Rourke, director of the council, which partners extensively with the FSU College of Social Work’s Institute for Family Violence Studies (IFVS).

The DVCC and its many partners launched a social media campaign this year titled, “There’s Hope in Healing.” The term was coined by local author Markeisa Tassy, as an inspiration to those who have experienced an abusive relationship.  

Each day this month, the council’s Instagram (@DVCCTallahassee) and Facebook (DVCC Tallahasseee) accounts are sharing informational posts, resources, and clips from a different survivor video each week.

Four local survivors, Iris, Kara, Shannon, and Alicia recorded videos documenting their experiences for others to view and share as a part of the social media campaign. The videos aim to not only raise awareness about the warning signs and all-too-common dynamics of domestic violence, but also provide hope for others in similar dangerous situations.

Research shows that the most dangerous time in any abusive relationship is when the survivor tries to leave the abuser. Leaving is not to be taken lightly and all precautions must be taken, including a safety plan if possible. 

Each unique story in the DVCC’s campaign shares the personal reasons and defining moments that served as a catalyst for each survivor to escape their abuser and move towards healing and a new life.  All four survivors overcame horrible physical violence and psychological abuse and now lead happy, successful lives. The full video of each survivor’s story is available on the DVCC website.

“When abusers realize that they are losing control over their partner, they often lash out in violent and even deadly ways to reassert their control over the victim,” O’Rourke explained. “Survivors can contact local victim advocates at our local domestic violence shelter Refuge House at 850-681-2111 for help in creating a safety plan and discussing other options including legal assistance.”

Kelly O’Rourke adds, “We hope sharing these stories of hope and resilience will inspire others who have experienced abusive relationships to realize they too deserve a life of peace, happiness and success. Many survivors just like Iris, feel as though they don’t deserve any better, but of course, they do.”

Forces United Against Domestic Violence

In addition, for the month of October all local law enforcement agencies, including the FSU Police Department, will display a vehicle with a graphic encouraging all to End the Silence on Domestic Violence along with a hotline number for help (1-800-500-1119).

The cars sporting this supportive message, were unveiled on October 5th at Cascades Park Plaza.   At the event, local sheriff and police Chiefs gathered together as Forces United Against Domestic Violence.

Former Leon County Sheriff Officer, Reverend Donnie Bramblett, shared the tragic story of his daughter’s murder by her boyfriend to bring awareness to the fact that anyone, even someone in a law enforcement officer’s family with knowledge of handling firearms, can be the victim of domestic violence.

“Until domestic violence is eradicated, it’s essential to continue raising awareness, during October and year-round, to build coordinated community support for survivors and hold perpetrators accountable,” affirmed Karen Oehme, IFVS director.

More resources in Florida can be found on the Department of Children and Families website at https://www.myflfamilies.com/services/abuse/domestic-violence.