I saw “It Ends with Us” this week in theaters, and it triggered many memories of domestic violence. Unfortunately, my experience is one that many women and even men go through daily.Â
When I was 15 years old, I ended up in my first relationship. We dated throughout high school and my first year of college.Â
Throughout that relationship, I faced many situations similar to those of the main character in the movie. My ex-boyfriend would often call me derogatory slurs due to dressing in something as simple as rain boots. He even yelled at me and threw things at me just for not doing what he said at that exact moment.
On the night of my senior high school prom, he got out of my car and started walking far into the parking lot because I wanted to spend time with my friends after the dance instead of returning to his house immediately. He did that right in front of my friends. During that same night, he kicked me so hard in the stomach that I struggled to catch my breath — all because I wouldn’t have sex with him.
Unfortunately, a lot of the “It Ends with Us” marketing does not highlight the importance of speaking out against domestic violence.
A lot of critics share that it is being marketed as a romantic comedy. The interviews have talked about the movie fashion choices and included the promotion of Blake Lively’s new hair care line. However, understanding and being educated about domestic violence is crucial, not only for our well-being but also to effectively support and assist those around us who may be affected.
Here are some important key facts about domestic violence:Â
- Domestic and family violence includes economic, physical, sexual, emotional, and psychological abuse of children, adults, or elders.
- Â Eighty-five percent of IPV victims are women. A woman is beaten every 9 seconds.
- It takes an average of 7 attempts for a survivor to leave their abuser and stay separated for good. Leaving is the most dangerous time in an abusive relationship.
- 1 in 3 teens, regardless of gender identity, experience dating violence each year.
- Abusers use violence because it helps them gain and maintain power and control, not because they lose control of their emotions.
- An average of 24 people per minute are victims of rape, physical violence, or stalking by an intimate partner in the United States. More than 12 million women and men experience it over a single year.
- 1 in 4 women and 1 in 7 men will experience severe physical violence by an intimate partner in their lifetime.
Statistics on domestic violence paint a stark picture of an issue that affects individuals across the world. The data underscores the urgent need to address and prevent domestic violence. By acknowledging the extent of the problem, society can work towards reducing the incidence of domestic violence and supporting survivors. The statistics serve as a call to action and a reminder of the responsibility to foster a safer environment for everyone.
Domestic violence resources:Â
National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 or text START to 88788
National Indigenous Women’s Resource Center: 406-477-3896
Salvation Army and Prevent IPV
Featured image via Mart Production on Pexels
