Domestic violence is a serious issue that many people tend to look past since it happens behind closed doors. This month, the month of October, is Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

October tends to be hyped around the idea of Halloween and people tend to oversee the issue of domestic violence.

The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence is responsible for making October the month where people realize the importance of domestic violence. They hold events that mourn those who have died, celebrate those who have survived, and connect those who work together to end domestic violence.
In addition to the coalition, Venice High School’s very own Margaret’s Place is also helping bring awareness to domestic violence.

“Margaret’s Place’s peer leadership is doing a week-long campaign in the last week of October to raise awareness about domestic violence,” said Margaret’s Place counselor Jimmy Higa.

Margaret’s Place founder Joe Torre was actually a victim of domestic violence. As a result, he started the Safe at Home Foundation and the Margaret’s Place programs.

Margaret’s Place is a program that allows those who are experiencing domestic violence to get help.
“They should talk to someone they trust or even come down to Margaret’s Place,” said peer leadership member Jeanette Marquez. “I just want them to know there are people they can talk to, myself included.”
Those who are in need of additional help can visit Joe Torre’s website which is www.joetorre.org which has a lot of helpful information for victims.