Submitted
Recent tragedies in our own community remind us that domestic violence is not a private matter, it is a public crisis with profound impacts. As we approach October, Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Jana’s Campaign is raising awareness about the critical, and often devasting, connection between domestic violence and officer-involved shootings. Domestic violence calls are among the most dangerous emergency responses for law enforcement officers, often escalating into lethal situations. These tragedies not only devastate the lives of victims and their families but also place first responders and entire communities at risk.
“We know the devastating impacts of domestic violence fatality as our organization was created as a result of our own family tragedy,” said Dr. Curt Brungardt, Co-Founder of Jana’s Campaign. “Every call for help represents not just a private dispute, but a potential life-or-death crisis that can ripple outward and harm innocent people.”
Domestic violence can often be misunderstood as an issue contained to a couple’s private relationship. In reality, the effects extend far beyond the immediate partners involved. Children who witness abuse can face long-term trauma. Families and friends lose loved ones. Co-workers, neighbors, and bystanders can become unintended victims. Even first responders, those who step in to protect, face life-threatening risks when responding to these calls.
According to national research, 13.9% of officer-involved shootings occur in response to domestic violence incidents (wcadv.org, 2020). This stark reality underscores the urgent need for prevention strategies and education at every level of the community.
“Our hearts are with all who have been impacted by the recent incidents here in our home community of Hays,” Kaiti Blackburn, executive director of Jana’s Campaign added. “Incidents like this remind us why prevention education is necessary.”
Jana’s Campaign calls on the community to recognize domestic violence not as a private matter, but as a community crisis requiring collective action.
For more information about how you can support prevention efforts and access resources for domestic violence, visit JanasCampaign.org or contact 785-656-0324.
If you are in immediate need of advocacy services, contact Options Domestic & Sexual Violence Services at 800-794-4624, for statewide services, contact the Kansas SafeLine at 1-888-363-2287.