Take Action!
1. MEN NEED TO ENGAGE IN THIS ISSUE:
We need men to stand up and publicly declare “zero tolerance for violence against women and children.” Sign the pledge from White Ribbon Organization to become an active ally (anyone can sign)! Are there mentor programs in your community for men to provide positive role models to childhood survivors? How can men’s groups become more aware of this issue? Is your local law enforcement supportive of your local shelters?
2. REACH OUT TO YOUR LOCAL DV AND FAMILY SHELTERS; ASK WHAT THEY NEED:
No one likes to think about this issue, so reaching out can mean the world of difference. Aside from donations, many shelters have an “Amazon List” of needs. Organize a drive in your community to fulfill these needs.
3. KNOW YOUR COMMUNITY’S DV AND FAMILY VIOLENCE STATS:
This allows you to be an active participant in mitigating the issue. A simple call to your local police department asking for this information shows that the community is tracking this issue. You can also look up state-by-state statistics from the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence.
Make a donation in honor of Mary Parrish, Mark’s mother, and Valerie Joy Wynn, Mark’s late wife and founder of the Mary Parrish Center.
WORK IN LAW ENFORCEMENT?
The Department of Justice has released updated Policing Guidance, “Improving Law Enforcement Response to Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence by Identifying and Preventing Gender Bias” - a terrific resource for trainings, outreach, and to accompany screenings.
