One in three women is a victim on domestic violence.
But did you know that one in six men is also a victim?
That number shocked a room full of men in Madison, South Dakota Wednesday.
The event was held in a church center, and attorney general Marty Jackley spoke– but advocates for the Domestic Violence Network of the Lakes Region says they’re not a religious group, or a partisan one at that –they just want to get their message out there.
Domestic violence touches all corners of South Dakota.
“Having a shelter is so important, because it’s an intervening factor,” Attorney General Marty Jackley said.
Madison, South Dakota domestic violence leaders want to expand their shelter. But they can’t afford to do it alone.
“It’s incredibly important, I’m learning as I’m here,” Madison business owner DeLon Mark said.
Wednesday, the room is full of men. They’re half as likely to experience domestic violence as women.
“It’s absolutely critical for men to be here. To learn about this, to learn the things that we can see in this community, in friends, and in neighbors, or family even, to learn how to identify this problem, and how to do something about it,” Mark said.
Attorney General Marty Jackley spoke on the importance of fighting domestic violence based on his experience as a prosecutor.
“It then escalates to that point, where it’s a manslaughter situation. And we have had that happen in several South Dakota communities,” Attorney General Marty Jackley said.
Money from each ticket bought Wednesday, as well as an auction, will help build the area’s new shelter.
“It’s important. You’ll see business leaders from across the community here. We want to do what we can to help this organization,” Mark said.
The Domestic Violence Network of the Lakes Region is also holding an event with Kristi Noem coming up– a tea, for women only.
If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence, find local resources here.
