How one sorority is fighting domestic violence

Domestic violence affects about 20 people per minute according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This number, sadly, does not include those who do not come forward to report violence and abuse. Unsurprisingly, women are more likely than men to be affected by domestic violence, and young women are particularly susceptible.

Since 1989, Omega Phi Beta has been working to put an end to this. The sorority began the Ray of Hope walk in 2011 as part of their philanthropic work to help to put an end to abuse against women.

I recently interviewed Aubrey Rosado, a sister of the Beta Omicron chapter of Omega Phi Beta in Purdue West Lafayette, Indiana to speak about the walk and the sorority’s ongoing efforts to end violence against women.

“Every time we host an event, every time a conversation is sparked, we are making our voice heard about an issue so many women face,” says Rosado. “We see our fight to end violence against women as a fight against domestic violence, trafficking, and all of the oppression women face, 1 in 4 women will experience violence, so it is very personal to us. A cause so powerful and important definitely impacts the lives of those involved.”

Omega Phi Beta sisters at their annual Ray of Hope walk.

This year, Omega Phi Beta also teamed up with AF3IRM, a national organization for feminist activism, during the walk.

One of the biggest problems when it comes to stopping domestic abuse and violence against women is that it happens so often that many people simply do not blink when they see or hear about it. According to Rosado, we can help not only by in participating in events like the Ray of Hope walk, but also by stepping up when we see someone in trouble by alerting the proper authorities. Many times couples get into arguments in public and we don’t do anything to stop it because we think it’s usual. Couples fight.

What we often fail to see is if couples fight in public, it may be symptomatic of what goes on behind closed doors.

Abuse may not always be visible. Many times, it happens when women are alone and at their most vulnerable. But there are still ways to help the silent or invisible victim. Ask regularly if your friends or loved ones are okay, especially if you notice a change in their behavior. If they confide in you, do not criticize their actions or inactions. The last thing a victim needs is someone telling them what to do. They do not need to be criticized or pushed. It’s far better for them to confide in you than to remain quiet.

If you or a loved one is being abused, call the Domestic Violence Hotline at 1[800]799-7233. If you would like to contribute the Ray of Hope walk or Omega Phi Beta’s philanthropy please visit their website.