Earlier this week on Tuesday, November 11, the students of Lambda Theta Alpha hosted their event, “Breaking The Silence,” in remembrance of the many people victimized by domestic violence.

Students were able to put together hygiene packets to give to the women of the Passaic County Domestic and Sexual Violence Center.

Afterward, an inspirational speech was given by Robin Hughes, the Crisis Response Team Project Manager at Jersey Battered Woman’s Services.

 The discussion highlighted the evolution and current challenges faced by domestic violence victims as well as the support agencies that assist in keeping these women safe. 

Many students interjected and asked questions, helping to point out their own perspectives on the issue of harm that many women are exposed to on a daily basis, which largely goes unnoticed. 

She states, “You need to know the warning signs of an unhealthy relationship, so victims of domestic violence often attempt to cover up the abuse in a variety of ways, so you have to learn to be a good listener; you have to listen because they’re going to give you little signs.”

One of the important practices Ms. Hughes stresses is the ability of a person to observe and listen to their friends, family, or colleagues to identify critical signs of abuse. 

However, it is not simply listening, she says; it is equally important that when a response is given, that response is without judgement or criticism. She says, “If they want to seek help, you’re going to help them. Don’t judge them. Like, if you judge them, that comes off as criticism. And then they’re going to hide from you even more.” 

Instead of judging, she highlights the necessity of creating a safe space for these victims first, as the primary thing that they desire at the moment is to be heard and understood, especially when they are already being misunderstood in their relationships. 

The purpose of professionals like Ms. Hughes is to “plant a seed of hope.” In doing so, victims of domestic violence will have some promise of help in the future despite whatever decision they might make in the present, whether it be to remain in their relationship or to leave. 

For students, this event provided increased awareness of the vulnerability that women face in relationships and the need to be vigilant of the signs of abuse, such as excessive privacy or frequent cancellations, that might be present around their peers, family, or simply a stranger they have met for the first time.