I’ve been really disappointed with the public’s reaction to Chris Brown’s (is it still alleged?) abuse of Rhianna.
None of the radio jockeys that I heard on my morning commute were quick to criticize Brown – even with a caveat that the abuse had not yet been proven. The same DJ’s took calls from people who claimed the abuse was Rhianna’s fault; if she hit him first, they argued, she got what she deserved.
I’m so happy to hear that the tide is *finally* turning.
Running late for work this morning, I caught 95.5 WPGC’s Real Talk with TC. TC told the women listening what many of us already know:
-Abuse can happen to any American woman, at any time:
- 5.3 million women are abused each year (that’s 1 in every 100 American women)
- 1232 are killed each year by an intimate partner
- Domestic violence is the leading cause of injury to women
-There are signs of an abusive partner (so look out, and get out if your partner may be a threat to you)
- And finally, there’s help out there if you need it. Most hotlines and other helplines are free and confidential.
WebMD has some tips on how to tell if someone you know – who hasn’t said so – is dealing with abuse. WebMD says you should encourage that person to talk to a health professional. I’d also say that being supportive and loving – not demanding or hurtful (ie, ‘how could you be so stupid? what are you still doing there?’) – is helpful, as well.
