Letter to the Editor: Crisis Center for South Suburbia (July 2022)
Letter to the Editor: Crisis Center for South Suburbia (July 2022) (Tinley Park, IL) — According to the Illinois Coalition Against Domestic Violence, 1 in 4 Women and 1 in 7 Men are victimized by a domestic partner. Domestic Violence affects everyone in our society and throughout our communities. The recent tragedy that took place in a well-known grocer in Evergreen Park is the latest example of a horrible act of violence at the hands of someone they once loved. This senseless and deadly shooting has shattered the lives of a young woman’s family, friends and coworkers.
Domestic violence can impact anyone. It’s all about exerting power and control over another person, and it’s not OK. There is never just one victim, and the presence of a gun in a domestic violence situation increases the risk of homicide by 500%.
The Crisis Center for South Suburbia is here to support victims of domestic violence, including children and young adults. We work hard to help victims secure Orders of Protection and provide free counseling and shelter; but as a community, we must be vigilant and watch for signs of domestic violence. We need to be there when someone is in trouble before another life is lost or traumatized.
Domestic Abuse can be complicated and signs are often hard to see from the outside. It is time, as a society, we educate ourselves on what healthy relationships look like; for everyone. Help break the silence and stigma wrongfully associated with cases of domestic violence. Our society and communities will be better off for everyone.
If you are a victim of domestic violence and don’t feel safe, we are here to help. If you feel isolated and alone because someone is controlling you, reach out. Call our 24-hotline for support, emergency shelter, resources, or just to talk. Our help and all of our services are free and confidential. Call 708-429-SAFE or visit www.crisisctr.org.
Letter to the Editor: Crisis Center for South Suburbia (July 2022)
Responses