“WE must always say ‘no’ to violence in the home,” says Pope Francis.
The Catholic Bishops of Victoria have issued Nov 29, a statement of Domestic violence. Domestic violence (DV) is a crisis in Australia – each week a woman dies at the hands of her partner or ex-partner. It is estimated that on in four children experience the fear and distress of witnessing their mother being abused.
In addition to this physical violence, DV can also be emotional, financial or spiritual. The roots are abuse of power and the control of one person over another. While men also suffer DV, women and children suffer and are the great majority of the victims of DV.
DV in all its forms offends against a vision of family as a place of safety and love, where children learn to respect and live with others. Our goal must be a society where all people are safe in their home, families and close relationships; where violence and abuse are not acceptable and where all relationships respect the equality and dignity of each person. This is part of the Gospel vision of love and respect.
Jesus always protected the oppressed and exposed evil. He always respected the human dignity of women, consistently challenging cultural attitudes of oppression and exclusion. We see him breaking social taboos that exclude people, and expanding the boundaries of human love, acceptance and friendship. Jesus challenges us to act in favour of the victims and work against anything that would prevent individuals from “living life to the full”.
Responses to DV are needed, which provide victims with protection and help in rebuilding their lives; which make offenders accountable and assist their rehabilitation; and which change those community attitudes from which violence emerges. We need to confront the causes of this violence, including the unequal position of women and men in our society.
DV is pervasive and is found everywhere. Our parish is no exception. The Statement by the Bishops is a welcome contribution to community awareness and action.