Advocacy is the voice that calls out inequities, that shines a light on injustices, and directs critical conversations. Advocates have unique and valuable insights into the diverse needs and experiences of survivors and their families, and are critical to informing policy change.
Advocacy comes in many forms, from individualized safety planning, to community mobilization for social justice, to lobbying for survivor-centered public policy. As our July Technical Assistance Question (TAQ) suggests,"advocates working in communities at the local level bring essential perspectives and knowledge to policy advocacy efforts."
Just as advocacy can be varied, so can the advocate. Those on the front line of service provision are advocates. Those walking the halls of city, county, state and federal buildings lifting up the voices of survivors are advocates. Those participating in marches, rallies, vigils, and awareness events pushing against injustice are advocates. Advocates are also the people at the hotel desk that recognize and step in to stop trafficking. Or the counselor who understands and supports a survivor who wants to provide a normal first day of school for her child.
“Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not.” –The Lorax, Dr. Suess
Advocates are all around and can be found in places we often don't think to look. Now more than ever, we are at a crossroads where our advocacy must expand outside of our usual efforts and partners. As we look ahead to Domestic Violence Awareness Month in October, we offer up in this edition, a wide variety of resources and partnerships aimed to inform and enhance your own advocacy efforts.
This eNewsletter spotlights new and notable resources and initiatives from NRCDV that encourage all of us to reflect on our journey, celebrate our successes, and move forward together towards social change.
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