Over the course of the last ten days, my shiner has given me pause to reflect on the experiences of those women who come to their shiners in less innocent fashion. I’ve encountered everything from curious glances to concerned questions over how I came to have a black eye to extreme awkwardness in those less able to cope with discomfort over the dark implications of a bruised eye. I would not presume to suggest that I’ve walked in the shoes of a woman who has experienced physical abuse. However, the mix of judgment and concern I’ve come across has certainly prompted me to be more mindful of the reality of violence against women. Women’s Aid claims that 1 in 4 women will experience domestic violence in her lifetime (often repeatedly); one incident of domestic violence is reported to the police every minute; an average of two women a week are killed by a current or former male partner.[1]
What can we do? I’m not sure either passing judgment or pitiful looks are effective strategies. For my part I made a small donation to my hometown’s women’s shelter, Alternatives for Battered Women in Rochester, NY. The economy has meant tough times for many people and charitable organisations have felt the pinch as giving has decreased. Many local groups could use your help. Money – even modest amounts – is always needed, but shelters like the ABW also post wish lists of goods you might be able to donate. Consider taking action in your community, perhaps you have time or money or skills that could help those in need.
How to be the center of attention | Jiu-Jiu's BJJ Blog
17 Feb 2011 @ 12:51 pm
[…] for good IF you fall on the Wonder Woman side of the good vs evil spectrum, as Meg clearly has. Apparently you can use a black eye to call attention to something important. I’m more on the Catwoman side of the good vs evil spectrum, so I just used my black eye as […]
October is DVAM - Jiu Jitsu Family
30 Sep 2012 @ 12:22 am
[…] Meg reflected on domestic violence after experiencing stares because of her bjj induced black eye. Read here […]