NCJ Number
215519
Date Published
2005
Length
0 pages
Annotation
This first installment of the Domestic Violence Awareness: Action for Social Change by the Domestic Violence Awareness Project (DVAP) is designed to support advocacy networks in their efforts to educate the public about the problem of domestic violence.
Abstract
The mission of DVAP is to support and promote national, tribal, State, and local advocacy networks in their ongoing public education efforts. This publication presents two chapters; the first focuses on violence against women and social change while the second focuses on the work of advocates within elderly communities, Native communities, and Asian and Pacific Islander communities. Chapter 1 begins by examining the culture of patriarchy and how it contributes to an atmosphere accepting of violence against women. Putting an end to violence against women will require comprehensive social change, which is described as a political process requiring a critical analysis of the power and control dynamics operating within all levels of society. Chapter 1 also explores the culture of disability, which is described as the largest culture in the world, encompassing different cultures, ethnicities, religions, ages, and socio-economic backgrounds. Research on violence against women with disabilities is presented, followed by an examination of how victim-survivors of domestic violence and sexual abuse who are not part of the dominant culture are perceived as “other” and less deserving of assistance. Chapter 2 presents research on domestic violence among older adults and discusses the experience of advocates working to end violence against Native women and Asian and Pacific Islander women. This chapter includes the voices of advocates who describe their experiences working within their own communities as agents of social change. Specific strengths, challenges, and strategies for working in particular communities are recounted and strategies, outreach, and intervention ideas are offered for engaging minority or outsider communities. The CD-ROM also presents a discussion of the terms used throughout the publication and a listing of resources that includes national organizations, tribal coalitions, and State domestic violence organizations. Exhibits, works cited