October marks the start of domestic violence awareness month.
In my group of friends alone I know more women that have suffered domestic abuse, violence, rape, sexual or physical abuse and/or coercion (in or outside of the home) than those who have not, and that’s including myself.
This may be a shocking statement to you, but look around to the women in your life. Ask questions. Hear them talk about their experiences, hear the ones stifling the difficult memories.
More importantly, see those who are silent and still suffering.
1 in 3 women, 1 in 5 children and 1 in 6 men will experience abuse in their lifetime.
This song was written after thinking about all the negative experiences the girls in my family have had, and also the girls I have the honour of calling my friends.
It’s also in response to always hearing people say, ‘why don’t they just leave?!’.
Which has a much more complicated answer to such a simple, black and white question.
Mind clear, eyes open wide, never look back.