"October was Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and this is what happens every day to countless victims of domestic violence and stalkin—women, men and children, at home and in public places.

These crimes are against the law, but victims are too seldom believed, too often ignored and too often blamed for the crimes that happen to them.

In our work and research, we have heard each of the arguments above repeatedly from police, attorneys, district attorneys, judges, and lawmakers. Society offers victims protective orders that are too often broken and may result in injury and death. Society tells victims to move to a shelter for safety.

Such a response costs society far more than arresting and imprisoning the perpetrators—in money and lives.

When will we learn?"

Get the Story:
Ann Dapice: Domestic Violence: When Will We Learn? (Indian Country Today 11/23)