Dear Editor,
The tragedy of domestic violence in our community is often examined in the media. It seems all the more heartbreaking when it occurs at our very doorsteps, leaving the community asking how such a thing can happen.
Though it may be a relief to name a person or agency as responsible, to do so vastly oversimplifies the complex reasons why persons continue to suffer abuse.
Even as the society grapples with the reality and the responsible agencies struggle to meet increasing needs with ever dwindling resources, persons, especially women, continue to be at risk. They will still suffer unimaginable abuse and will have changed, and all will seem well until the next tragedy occurs. The cycle will repeat itself until the community comes forward to meet the challenge.
We can all help by becoming educated about the true reasons behind abuse and in turn, educating others in the community. It is time for the communities to become part of the solutions.
I am sure that we have many allies in the fight to stop abuse, agencies that provide mentoring, counselling and adequate housing, outreach to young families, food and job skills training. There are neighbours and family members who can also step in to provide assistance or simply lend an ear to listen. Still, we need more people to step forward and make a commitment, small or large, to ensure that those most vulnerable among us are safe from harm. We cannot wait for the next tragedy before we take action.
Sincerely,
Petra Singh