Domestic Violence Awareness

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class BrieAnna Stillman
  • 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. --  Domestic violence can happen to anyone at any time, but many times it is overlooked or goes unnoticed by others.

Team Shaw came together throughout the month of October to support domestic violence survivors and show their respects to those who lost their lives to domestic violence.

“The purpose of observing this month is to bring awareness to the plight of victims of domestic violence and to let people know of the resources and services that are available not only for victims, but on the prevention side as well,” said Patty Busser, 20th Medical Operations Squadron family advocacy outreach manager.

Domestic violence can be helped and even prevented when people take action such as participating in marriage counseling, said Busser.
Throughout the month, Mental Health and Family Advocacy put together multiple events in order to impress upon people the importance of asking others if they are “okay” and raise awareness.

They brought together some Team Shaw members, used makeup to create fake black eyes and let them walk around base to see how many people asked them what happened or if they were alright.

Toward the end of the month they held a candlelight vigil in memory of all who have been lost to any incident of domestic violence and to honor survivors.

“This is really a celebration for the survivors to remind them to speak up and let them know that they are not alone and even if they don’t speak up, because it is hard, that we are still here,” said Capt. Ziser Sherri, 20th MDOS family advocacy officer.

For more information and resources contact:
Domestic Abuse Victim Advocacy 803-306-7558
Family Advocacy Program 803-895-6201