Domestic Violence Requires a Community Response

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, an opportunity to bring greater attention to an issue affecting individuals and families across Kansas. It is also a time to support survivors, recognize the organizations doing this work every day and consider the role each of us can play in helping prevent domestic violence.

Too often, domestic violence is viewed as a private matter. In reality, it is a community issue that requires a community response.

At Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas, we know health is influenced by more than access to health care. Feeling safe and supported also matters to a person's physical and mental well-being. That's why this work matters to us.

It starts within our own organization. Through our Shield Against Violent Environments (SAVE) initiative, employees affected by domestic violence have access to resources and support. Abuse can take many forms, and we want our employees to know they don't have to navigate those circumstances alone. We also welcome the opportunity to share what we have learned through SAVE with other employers interested in creating similar support for their employees.

That commitment extends into communities across our service area. We are proud to support organizations working to prevent domestic violence and support survivors, including the Kansas Coalition Against Sexual and Domestic Violence and its member programs, YWCA of Northeast Kansas, Jana’s Campaign and other community partners throughout Kansas.

I've seen the difference strong community partnerships can make. No single organization can address domestic violence alone. It takes advocates, employers, community organizations and individuals working together to build awareness, connect people with resources and create environments where survivors feel supported.

One way we put that commitment into action is through our support of YWCA of Northeast Kansas' Week Without Violence. This movement brings people together around education, advocacy and civic engagement while centering the voices of survivors.

But our responsibility cannot begin and end with an awareness month or a week of events.

We can learn to recognize the signs of abuse. We can support organizations working directly with survivors. We can talk openly about domestic violence and help reduce the stigma that can make seeking help even more difficult. And when someone does reach out, we can listen and help connect them with support.

No one should have to navigate domestic violence alone.

This October, I encourage Kansans to learn more, support organizations doing this work in their communities and consider how each of us can help create an environment where people feel safe asking for help.

Ending domestic violence will take all of us. By speaking out, supporting survivors and working together, we can help build safer, healthier communities across Kansas.

Contact: Cory Hollar, External Communications Strategist, BCBSKS
[email protected]