Domestic Violence
Advocacy Plan for Social Change AREA OF INTEREST -- DOMESTIC ABUSE
Social activist group:
The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV)
The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV) is an organization devoted to raising awareness about the seriousness of the problem of domestic violence. It "includes coalition building at the local, state, regional and national levels" and also provides "support for the provision of community-based, non-violent alternatives -- such as safe home and shelter programs - for battered women and their children" (Mission, 2011, NCADV). Its aims are both political and practical -- it lobbies politicians to encourage them to pass legislation to protect the interests of battered women and it also engages in fundraising efforts for specific initiatives that can protect battered women and their children while they are transitioning from an abusive home.
The NCADV takes a specific position on the causes for domestic violence. "NCADV believes violence against women and children results from the use of force or threat to achieve and maintain control over others in intimate relationships" (Mission, 2011, NCADV). Negative relationships between the genders as well as socioeconomic conditions can create a breeding-ground for abuse. The NCADV strives to empower women by helping them escape abusive relationships and providing them...
It also educates the public in general about the causes of domestic violence.
One important step to advocate for the group would be to lobby legislators at the state level not to cut funds for battered women's shelters. Given the economic difficulties today, women may feel compelled, even more so than before, to remain in abusive relationships, because of perceived economic needs. Halfway houses are essential bridges for women between their untenable life situation and the outside world. Many women believe they lack the skills and emotional fortitude to make a living. Shelters give women a place to stay but also direct them in their job search efforts and can provide them with ways to seek an education.
Lobbying government organizations to clarify the current laws against domestic violence are also essential. There have been several recent protective acts passed by the states. Laws were passed in both Florida and Oregon, requiring "employers to give domestic violence victims, as well as their family and household members, up to three days of paid or unpaid leave to go to court, seek a protection order, obtain medical or mental health counseling, get services from a victims' rights organization, or seek housing or legal assistance" and laws in Maine, Alaska, Florida, and Connecticut also enhanced the penalties for the crime of…
