Thoughts on Domestic Violence Awareness Month from URI CEO, Nathaniel Fields
National Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) was created in 1987 by the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, and each October organizations and individuals continue to use this month to bring special focus on the issue of domestic abuse. In the 35 years since DVAM was launched, and the 42 years since URI was founded, great strides have been made in the awareness of domestic violence, acknowledgement that it is a crime, and the creation and availability of trauma-informed services for survivors. Everyone at URI can be proud of our leadership in this movement, and of our four decades of delivering safe shelter and comprehensive, client-centered services to everyone who walks through our doors.
But our work is not done. The sad reality is that one in four women and one in seven men still experience violence in their lifetime, and domestic violence is the leading cause of homelessness. We know, too, that Black and brown individuals are disproportionately impacted by domestic violence, and that children who witness abuse in the home are 50% more likely to be victims or perpetrators in adulthood.
That is why URI focuses on prevention and intervention as well as direct services. Our goal is to drive systemic change to break cycles of violence and poverty. Wherever you work within URI, and whatever your role, you are a vital part of this mission and our impact.
During Domestic Violence Awareness Month, I send special gratitude to Team URI for everything you do to bring brighter futures and joy to our clients.
And I encourage you to join in the URI Celebration: Rise Up! virtual event on October 19. Please share our pride and invite family and friends to celebrate the extraordinary clients, staff, and supporters who drive our mission. Visit the web page to learn more and register for free: https://urinyc.org/events/2022-uri-celebration/
In solidarity,
Nathaniel Fields (he, him, his)
Chief Executive Officer
Urban Resource Institute
