Mid Central Community Action rounded out Domestic Violence Awareness Month with a rally Tuesday in Downtown Bloomington.
Deborah White, executive director at MCCA, said addressing domestic violence is a community effort.
“It takes a multidisciplinary team,” White said. “It takes everyone in our community to break this cycle of domestic violence.”
Members from law enforcement, MCCA's Countering Domestic Violence Program, and First United Methodist Church spoke about the role they play in reducing domestic violence and providing support for victims in Bloomington-Normal.
Bloomington Police Chief Clay Wheeler said his department responds to 2,000 cases of domestic violence annually. But he explained many times it goes unreported.
MCCA said a primary takeaway for community members is “if you see something, say something.”
White recalled her favorite domestic violence awareness poster.
“It says, ‘If the loud noise coming from next door was music, you’d do something about it,’” White said. “So what we’re asking everyone in the community is first, be a role model for respectful relationships. And two, if you see something that is not a display of respect in a relationship, reach out to law enforcement.”
She said it is important to know the MCCA Countering Domestic Violence hotline number for those in need of support, but all emergencies should be reported to police. The hotline number is (309) 827-7070.
2018 Champion
MCCA also took time to recognize Illinois State University Head Women’s Volleyball Coach Leah Johnson as its 2018 Champion.
White said this is the first year they have awarded the honor.
Johnson was recognized for her efforts and commitment to domestic violence awareness. At the ISU Homecoming women’s volleyball game, players wore purple socks and the hotline number was displayed on the big screen next to the score.
Purple is the official color of the movement to end domestic violence and of Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
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