October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month

Domestic violence is a pattern of behaviors that adults or adolescents use against their intimate partners or former partners to establish power and control. It may include physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse and economic abuse. Forty-five percent of American Indian and Alaska Native women have experienced intimate partner violence, and one in seven Native men are a victim of intimate partner violence. Engaging in a strong, healthy relationship is key to building trust and mutual safety with partners.

Links:

• $2.9 million grant awards for Domestic Violence Prevention Program
• Read the Indian Health Service’s policy on Intimate Partner Violence
• National Domestic Violence Hotline
• Where to go for help