A Cause for Concern: Did you know that for women who experience domestic violence, the weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas are the most dangerous time of the year? Not only do reports of domestic violence increase during the holidays, but the very nature of the violence itself tends to be especially vicious and harsh this time of year. Holiday-related stress, including expectations involving celebration and gift-giving, as well as additional financial demands, seem to bring out the worst in some people. Domestic violence is the leading cause of injury to women between 15 and 44 years of age, more than car accidents, muggings, and rapes combined. We should all be concerned about the safety of Deaf women - and children - in our community who are victims of domestic violence.

If You are being Hurt by Domestic Violence:

1) Tell someone about the abuse. If family or authorities know about it, they can help defuse the situation or take you out of harm’s way.

2) Stay out of kitchens or bathrooms during arguments. Knives are in kitchens and bathrooms have tight quarters.

3) If you’re going to party, avoid alcohol and drugs and stay in a big group. That increases the number of witnesses and reduces the likelihood of violence.

If You Know Someone Who is in an Abusive Relationship:

1) If an assault is occurring, call 911.

2) Take the time to listen, and believe what your friend says. Don’t judge or criticize your friend’s choices. Give emotional support.

3) Don’t downplay the danger - express concern for your friend’s safety. Let your friend know about agencies that can help.

If You Think a Person is being Abusive:

1) Tell them you feel uncomfortable when they insult or putdown their partner.

2) Tell them that their behavior disturbs you.

3) Tell them you care about them and urge them to contact a batterer treatment agency. Don’t agree with any statements that suggest their partner brought on the abuse. Remember, there’s no excuse for domestic violence.

DAWN’S FUNDRAISING NIGHT: Show Your Support

Fuddruckers
12111 Darnestown Road
Gaithersburg, MD 20878

Wednesday, December 6, 2006

5-8 PM

20% of all proceeds will go toward the survivor support program, which includes supporting staff members, emergency client costs and pager costs for the volunteer advocates who are currently working with survivors.

You may contact Amy Crumrine, Fundraising Chair, at racrumrine@aol.com for further assistance.

Print out this flyer to bring to Fuddruckers to ensure that your proceeds will go to DAWN.