Domestic Violence Forum Set for Oct. 25 in Aurora
The Kane County Sheriff’s Office is partnering with Mutual Ground to present a domestic violence forum from noon to 1:30 p.m. and from 6:15 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 25, at the Santori Public Library, 101 S. River St., Aurora.
The program is designed for people 18 years old and up.
Representatives of the Kane County Sheriff’s Office, Mutual Ground and other speakers will discuss domestic violence issues, how to stop the cycle of abuse and where and how victims may get help locally.
What Is Domestic Violence?
SOURCE: Mutual Ground, Office of Violence Against Women websites
Domestic violence occurs when one person in an intimate relationship establishes power and control over the other person through a pattern of intentional behaviors. Behaviors used to gain power and control over another include physical, emotional, sexual and financial abuse, as well as isolation, threats and intimidation.
Domestic violence can happen to anyone regardless of race, age, sexual orientation, religion or gender. Domestic violence affects people of all socioeconomic backgrounds and education levels. Domestic violence occurs in both opposite-sex and same-sex relationships and can happen to intimate partners who are married, living together or dating.
Domestic violence not only affects those who are abused, but also has a substantial effect on family members. Children who grow up witnessing domestic violence are among those seriously affected by this crime. Frequent exposure to violence in the home not only predisposes children to numerous social and physical problems, but also teaches them that violence is a normal way of life — therefore, increasing their risk of becoming society’s next generation of victims and abusers.
What Are the Signs of Domestic Violence?
SOURCE: Mutual Ground
The most telling sign of an abusive relationship is feeling afraid to disagree or express your own opinion, for fear of how your partner will react.
If you feel like you have to walk on eggshells around your partner — constantly watching what you say and do in order to avoid a blow-up — chances are your relationship is unhealthy and possibly abusive. Below are a few of the many signs of an abusive relationship.
Does your partner …
- Blame you for problems in the relationship?
- Accuse you of being unfaithful?
- Behave in a jealous, possessive manner?
- Make fun of you or put you down?
- Keep you from seeing friends or family?
- Force you to do things you are not comfortable doing?
- Monitor your daily activities/routine?
Do you feel …
- Afraid of saying or doing the “wrong” thing?
- As if the problems in the relationship are your fault?
- That if you do everything that your partner wants, the abuse will stop?
Everyone has the right to feel safe from threats and violence. If you think you may be in an abusive relationship, services are available.
Where to Call If You Are a Victim of Domestic Abuse
- If you are in immediate danger, call 911.
- Domestic Violence Hotline: 630-897-0080 (24 hours)
- Sexual Assault Hotline: 630-897-8383 (24 hours)
- Mutual Ground Administrative Offices: 630-897-0084
Santori Public Library
- 101 S. River St., Aurora, Illinois 60506
- Driving Directions
- phone: 630-264-4100
- fax: 630-892-5648
About the Kane County Sheriff’s Office
It is the mission of the Kane County Sheriff’s Office to maintain peace in Kane County communities and protect the Constitutional rights of all citizens. Sheriff’s Office employees will accomplish this mission by providing effective and efficient services with moral and ethical integrity. All citizens can be expected to be treated with equal justice and compassion for their needs. For more information, visit the Kane County Sheriff’s Office website and KaneSheriff’s Facebook page.
About Mutual Ground
Mutual Ground is the safe place where people come together to break the cycle of domestic violence and sexual abuse. Located at 418 Oak Ave., Aurora, IL, Mutual Ground has a 28 bed shelter for victims that need emergency shelter and many other services for victims that need help, but are safe to live at home. For more information, visit the Mutual Ground website and Facebook page.
