Episode 87 – It can happen to anyone: What you need to know about domestic abuse

2020 produced the highest number of domestic violence reports in at least 20 years, and, as of 2020, domestic abuse charges that were once misdemeanors are now classified as violent crimes by Oklahoma law. While domestic abuse is not isolated to one geographic area, socioeconomic level or culture, it is important to highlight that homicide is a top leading cause of death in Indigenous girls and women. October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and today we're sitting down with Kendra Clements of Matriarch, Kate Bacon of Family Builders and Kim Garrett of Palomar OKC to unpack the stereotypes versus realities. While domestic abuse is not isolated to one geographic area, one socioeconomic level, one culture, etc., it is important to highlight that homicide is a top leading cause of death in Indigenous girls and women. Join us as we seek to understand domestic abuse and it’s severity, but also what is and can be done to help families and victims who are suffering. Matriarch services in Oklahoma (OKC and Tulsa): www.matriarchok.com. Family Builders services in OKC: www.familybuildersok.org. Palomar: Oklahoma City's Family Justice Center programs can be found at www.palomarokc.org. If you have suspected or witnessed abuse or you yourself are a victim, call the Statewide Abuse and Neglect Hotline: 1-800-522-3511.