It seems ironic that November is woman abuse awareness and prevention month and there would be a very public incident in Strathroy that would result in a local school going to a shut down because of a “domestic issue”. Not surprisingly, some of the “chatter” in the community was concern for the safety of children attending the school; less so for the people actually affected. For those who still think that these are isolated incidents that happen to other people in other communities, it’s a bit of a wake up call.
The shut down response is the result of a safety plan for the staff and students and is applicable to any school within the Thames Valley school division. The women who come to us for assistance are also encouraged to create their own safety plans. What does this entail? First and foremost it is a discussion to assess their risk of physical and emotional safety and to create a series of precautions they can take to prevent harm to themselves or their children. It kind of makes you sit back and think – doesn’t it? Home, work, school and other places that we may go – all requiring thought as how best to keep one safe. If you’ve ever asked the question, “why don’t they leave?” this is one part of the equation. Faced with controlling one’s immediate surroundings or trying to plan for all the places you go, can be overwhelming. Isolation and the feeling of no one to turn could result in a woman staying in a relationship long past what most of us would find tolerable. It makes you realize how vulnerable we can be when faced with violence.
The school board sets in place very definite protocols and is able to do so when they are not under threat. The schools plan for a possible worst case scenario, while many women are living it. Yet, with the help of staff at the Women’s Rural Resource Centre, they are able to assess and address their own particular concerns. This includes the safest rooms in their homes, ensuring their house number is visible and to be aware of the safe people they can rely on. People like neighbours, friends or even partner’s families.
So the next time you hear of a “domestic issue” that impacts your feeling of safety for yourself or your children, remember that this is a daily occurrence for hundreds of women in our area alone. It is far less likely that one of these incidents will impact you directly, but it is possible that you might be in a position to step up and be a “safe person.” Are you willing to come out of the “neighbourhood lockdown” and instead be a safe haven? Open your door, open your mind and be that person.
