by Richard Low
Advocate and Stand Up Men Coordinator at DVSAS
Has domestic violence been something that has touched your life? Is there someone you know who has been sexually assaulted or had unwanted contact? The reality is, one in three women, and one in five men have or will experience something like this in their lifetime. You likely have a friend or family member struggling with these issues right now. In spite of this prevalence, it has been so rarely challenged by men in our society. However, many feel it is time; men MUST step up beside the women who have fought so hard against this, and take a stand together.
That is the call of the Stand Up Men groups forming in our island communities. We are groups of concerned pro-community men who seek to lead other men, both young and old, to a greater education of, and preventative attitude towards, the sexual and domestic abuse that grows in our culture. We have members from many walks of life; community and faith leaders, students, business men, authors, and even our county sheriff. Many people, but one vision, to take a stand together on behalf of those we care about, in hope that tomorrow will offer a safer world than today.
Our group’s efforts have included helping support the fundraising initiatives of Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Services, spearheading the Labor Day weekend “Drink Smart, Drink Safe” campaign as well as an ongoing vigil on the courthouse lawn every Friday from noon to one. The groups also meet monthly.
These Stand Up Men will be leading out in the “Remember my Name” Vigils on each island to honor those who have lost their lives to domestic violence in 2014 in Washington State. These will be held at the site of the Silent Witness Silhouettes Installations on the following dates: San Juan 10/23 at noon, Lopez 10/29 at 5 p.m. The Orcas event was held on Oct. 15. See the above photo.
It is at this vigil (and weekly at San Juan Court House) that we would invite you to come and speak to one of our members to find out how you can “Stand Up” with us. Or you can email Richard Low at richard@dvsassanjuans.org.
If you are struggling with a past or present situation of sexual assault or domestic violence please reach out – San Juan: 378-8680, Orcas: 376-5979 and Lopez 468-3788.
