Episode 4 – Natalie & Jessica

Domestic Violence, Non-profit, Sexual Assault

Discussing crisis counseling, awareness campaigns, cultural roadblocks, and public stigma surrounding sexual assault and domestic violence with Natalie and Jessica, both interns with Safer, which is Cal Poly’s confidential advocacy, education and support resource for addressing sexual assault, sexual misconduct, dating violence, domestic violence, and stalking. Natalie also works for RISE SLO which is a non-profit organization that provides crisis intervention and treatment services to survivors of sexual and intimate partner violence and their loved ones. We also discuss how the terminology surrounding gender violence can hinder victims from seeking help because they feel what happened to them (stalking, emotional abuse, cyber-bullying, etc.) does not fit under the umbrella term of “relationship violence.” Ultimately, both RISE and Safer offer victims help and hope to live an empowered life.

 

RISE: http://www.riseslo.org/

Safer: https://safer.calpoly.edu/

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Episode 3 – Madison

Sexual Assault

This is Madison’s story. She chose to speak up about her sexual assault after five years of silence, so that she can be a voice for those who are silent. As a part of Ulzi Stories, Madison hopes to help and inspire others who may be feeling the guilt, fear, or shame that she once did. Madison wants to be a part of the solution, which is why she is a team member of Ulzi, a personal safety app for iOS and Android that helps friends and family keep each other safe.

 

 

 

Here is the link to the full story: https://ulzi.com/my-story

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Episode 2 – Anonymous Homosexual Domestic Violence Victim

Domestic Violence, Non-profit

This is an anonymous homosexual domestic violence victim’s statement that he read aloud to a jury. His case went through to a jury trial the first time around, and the jury decided his ex was not guilty. Now, the second time around he pleads with the jury to set aside their personal biases surrounding the gay and lesbian community. The victim talks of his ex partner’s drinking habits and violent behavior. The victim believes there are many gay and lesbian people who suffer from domestic violence, and that they should NOT be afraid or feel ashamed to reach out for help. As the victim discusses, speaking up and reporting one’s aggressor can act as a “second chance at life.”

 

 

 

Music credit to Peder B. Helland, Soothing Relaxation

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Episode 1 – Mari

Domestic Violence, Non-profit

Mari discusses breaking the domestic violence cycle, a murder victim, a woman who was stabbed for years finally liberating herself, how to empower victims so the violence can end, and what it is like to run into past victims she has helped out of dangerous relationships in restaurants and around town. She brings up female defendants and how children are often affected the most during domestic violence disputes. She pushed for bilingual advocates in the DA’s office and believes the biggest roadblock for victims is that they don’t get the outcome they deserve in court. Mari explains how defense attorneys vilify victims as well as law enforcement, and they prey on jurors bias’. Mari talks to jurors once a trial has ended and says they do not think the victim was emotional enough, or they believe if someone is a victim, he or she put themselves in that position. Ultimately, it is important to speak out if you see something wrong or get help if you believe you may be in a domestic violence relationship. There is a chance for liberation and new life.

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