October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, an opportunity to remember victims and survivors, raise awareness of what domestic violence is, how to recognize it, and what can be done to prevent it.
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Every month, an average of 70 women are shot and killed by an intimate partner.
Everytown analysis of CDC, National Violent Death Reporting System (NVDRS), 2019.
Last updated: 1.26.2022
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Access to a gun makes it five times more likely that a woman will die at the hands of a domestic abuser.
Campbell, J. C., and et al. (2003). “Risk factors for femicide in abusive relationships: results from a multisite case control study”. American Journal of Public Health. (2003). https://doi.org/10.2105/ajph.93.7.1089
Every month, an average of 70 women are shot and killed by an intimate partner and nearly 1 million women alive today have reported being shot or shot at by intimate partners. Research clearly shows that disrupting abusers’ access to guns can save lives.
National Domestic Violence Hotline
If you or someone you know is in crisis, please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-SAFE (7233), or text START to 88788 from anywhere in the U.S.
Domestic violence, also known as intimate partner violence, can take many forms. Understanding the behaviors that define domestic violence is a crucial way to take part in prevention and assist others in crisis.
Defining the Problem
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Guns Can Turn Domestic Violence Deadly
Domestic violence and gun violence are deeply interconnected, impacting millions across the U.S. Guns are more likely to turn abuse fatal.
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Guns and Violence Against Women
Abusers with firearms are five times more likely to kill their victims, and guns further exacerbate the power and control dynamic used by abusers.
All forms of intimate partner violence are preventable. Common-sense laws that keep guns out of the hands of abusive partners can help to reduce it.
Addressing Solutions
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Require background checks for all gun sales
Background checks are the foundation of any comprehensive gun violence prevention strategy.
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Close the Charleston Loophole
Closing the Charleston Loophole would ensure that no firearm is sold with an incomplete background check.
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Prohibit people with dangerous histories from having guns
Federal law should be amended to fill dangerous gaps in the law that enable people with dangerous histories to have guns.
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Require prohibited people to turn in their guns
Relinquishment laws enforce existing laws that prohibit certain categories of people with violent backgrounds from having guns.
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Alert law enforcement of failed background checks
Alerting authorities of a failed background check helps prevent that person from obtaining a gun through other illegal means.
This month, help raise awareness of intimate partner violence by sharing resources and shining a light on prevention.
Domestic Violence Grant Program
Through our Domestic Violence Grant Program, organizations across the country can access funding. These grants support activities related to addressing the intersection of domestic violence and gun violence.
Learn MoreMoments That Survive
During Domestic Violence Awareness Month, read and share the stories of domestic violence survivors.
Read MoreMore Resources
Share on Social Media
Help raise awareness by sharing resources on domestic violence on your social media accounts.
Partner Resources
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