Domestic violence hits homes—and workplaces
Domestic violence is not only taking a toll on America's family life, but on workers and workplaces too. A federal union is speaking out this month, raising awareness—and reminding feds to use in-house and other resources to fight this scourge.
Domestic violence affects not only home life, but in a big way workplaces too.
So stresses the labor union American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), which is joining in recently on an energetic national campaign against the scourge of battered partners. October, the union also reminds members, is recognized as Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
“Domestic violence is a worker health and safety issue that impacts the well-being of not just our membership, but our workplaces. It is recognized in October,” AFGE said in a statement this week.
“AFGE activists and locals can take an active role in preventing domestic violence by becoming educated on the signs and how it impacts people in the workplace, being knowledgeable about where people can seek help, and much more,” the union added.
Even as domestic violence remains a terrible problem throughout the country, large nonprofit organizations are helping to reduce the toll. The National Domestic Violence Hotline is there for all, at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or 1-800-787-3224 (TTY). Additionally, groups like the National Network to End Domestic Violence (NNEDV), offers a wide range of informational resources to the public—and continue to lobby for improved law and policy affecting homes, workplaces and all across society.
“More than 1 in 3 women have experienced rape, physical violence, and/or stalking by an intimate partner in their lifetime,” NNEDV stated in its most recent factsheet. The group’s statistics show that their and other organizations’ efforts have helped buttress a trend that has seen a reduced incidence of “nonfatal intimate partner violence.” But overall the statistics remain alarming.
AFGE has a Women’s and Fair Practices Departments with various resources to help members—and activists—to fight against domestic violence. The resources are also there for members to consult and use for themselves or to act as advocates for others experiencing abuse.
“AFGE members can visit www.afge.org/StopDV to find a comprehensive guide about domestic violence awareness, sign a pledge to support education and prevention efforts, and learn more about the union’s efforts,” the union said.
“Domestic violence can happen to anyone regardless of race, color, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, religion, or gender identity,” AFGE said. “It affects people of all socioeconomic backgrounds and education levels. Domestic violence can occur in relationships regardless of gender and can happen to intimate partners who are married, living together, or dating. It not only affects those who are abused, but also family members, friends, coworkers, other witnesses, and the community at large. “
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