Domestic violence is on the rise in Sacramento. How neighbors, businesses can help

BY ORIZO HAJIGURBAN

Trigger warning: upsetting subjects that pertain to domestic violence and abuse are discussed in this Q&A discussion.

Joyce Bilyeu, director of client services at The Family Justice Center in Sacramento said her organization saw a 112% increase in new and returning clients in 2020.

According to The National Domestic Violence Hotline, their contacts decreased when stay-at-home orders were first put into place and once the orders slowly began to lift, their contacts increased by 9% compared to the same period in 2019.

Reports of domestic violence cases are increasing both nationally and locally. Experts believe the increasing demand to stay home and social isolation plays a major part in the rise in numbers and communities, businesses, and neighbors can play a critical role in a victim’s journey of escaping abuse.

In a series of reporting done by the Sacramento Bee’s Equity Lab, we’ve explored the rise in domestic violence cases after shelter-in-place orders were partially lifted, how to spot abuse and how to help as an ally.

In an interview with WEAVE’s Chief Program Officer, Jaime Gerigk answered our questions on how to identify domestic abuse from both inside and outside of a relationship, how to help and how to get help.WEAVE is a California nonprofit public benefit corporation. Their mission is to promote safe and healthy relationships and support survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence and sex trafficking.Q: How can people outside of a relationship spot domestic abuse and what should be their first step if they want to help?A: The first steps in helping someone in an abusive relationship is to recognize the signs, respond with non-judgmental concern and empathy and refer to help and resources.Behaviors to look out for:

  • Is your friend anxious about making their partner upset or angry?
  • Is your family member depressed and feeling isolated from friends, family and support system?
  • Has your neighbor shared a history of violence with you?
  • Has your co-worker called in sick a lot recently and withdrawn from social activities?

Q: As a neighbor, friend, or a witness of domestic abuse, what could I do to help?A: If something doesn’t seem right with your friend, co-worker, neighbor or family member, asking them privately “Are you ok? Do you want to talk?” can make all the difference. If they choose to talk with you, then actively listen. Saying something like “I am here for you if you ever want to talk.”It’s also important to share resources and options. “Have you heard of WEAVE? You call the support line anytime and talk to someone confidentially about what’s going on.” Or “You are not alone. Can I give you the phone number and website to WEAVE?”