Editorials - 02/22/01

Another step to stop domestic violence

The Alliance realizes that changing attitudes must begin while children are very young, even while they are babes in arms. Children should be taught that hitting is not the answer to anger - that it's O.K. to get mad, but there are other ways to control anger rather than with fists or feet.

All parents need to create and enforce an atmosphere that proclaims, "We do not believe in domestic violence and we will not tolerate it," they say. Neighborhood connections must be strengthened. If you know for certain that your neighbor is being abused, offer to help. Don't just ignore it for fear of getting involved.

Certain houses can be designated as "safe places" where a victim knows temporary shelter and a telephone are available. While they don't provide short-term housing needs like an alliance-sponsored safe house, folks in neighborhood "safe places" are trained to know who to call for help and provide a valuable service. Business can also participate through a "safe place" program.

The alliance remembers the tribe's matriarchal heritage that was based on the mother's clan. When a Cherokee man married, he joined and lived with the wife's close-knit family. Back then, if a woman's father, brothers, uncles or other male relatives knew she was being abused, they did not tolerate it.

While housing patterns have isolated Cherokee families, alliance members speak strongly of helping foster that same type of support system. Their logo is five Cherokee women closely huddled shoulder to shoulder. It signifies strength in numbers - the idea that if one woman is falling the others are close enough to hold her up.

We applaud the alliance for taking a stand against domestic violence. As a fledgling operation, its first few years will be a struggle. Luckily, alliance members have a wonderful role model here in Jackson County with REACH.

Over the years we have watched REACH grow into a strong and viable support group for victims of domestic violence and sexual abuse. Now one of our county's greatest resources, REACH is truly an example of how a neighborhood of people can help foster a community attitude that domestic violence will not be tolerated.

Here's to the success of the Qualla Women's Justice Alliance. We admire their commitment and courage, and we believe they have the strength to change attitudes.

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