Tarver Highlights Resources for Domestic Violence Awareness Month

CHICAGO – For Domestic Violence Awareness Month this October, state Rep. Curtis J. Tarver II, D-Chicago, is highlighting resources available for people experiencing domestic violence.

“Domestic violence affects many different people and is not exclusive to one demographic or any specific background,” said Tarver. “With more people spending time at home in order to stay safe from the coronavirus as well as the stress of the pandemic, rates of domestic violence and abuse have increased.”

According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV), one in three women and one in seven men will experience domestic violence in their lifetime with one in four women and one in six men experiencing sexual abuse before the age of 18. Signs of domestic violence include sexual, emotional and physical abuse featuring coercion, intimidation and threats centered on the power and control of the abuser.

Tarver is highlighting these free resources that are available 24/7 and include confidential support, multilingual assistance, and provide a wide range of services regardless of disability, ethnicity, gender, income, race, religion or sexual orientation:

• National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-SAFE (800-799-7233) or thehotline.org
• National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800-656-HOPE (800-656-4673) or hotline.rainn.org
• Illinois Domestic Violence Help Line at 877-TO END DV (877-863-6338)
• National Teen Dating Abuse Helpline at 866-331-9474, by texting loveis to 866-331-9474, or loveisrespect.org
• Residents can find local shelters and assistance from Domestic Shelters at domesticshelters.org/help.

“Too many acts of domestic violence go unnoticed and unreported. We cannot allow survivors of domestic violence to feel alone or afraid,” said Tarver. “We must take the time to become familiar with the signs of domestic violence and the resources available to ensure that no child, woman, or man who falls victim to domestic violence goes without the help they deserve.”