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We affirm that we live in a society where
resources, power, privileges, rewards and justice are
distributed unequally. Therefore we hold these truths to
be self-evident:
Domestic violence is not solely a woman's issue,
nor is it solely a man's issue. However, the vast
majority of victims of domestic violence are
women.
Domestic violence is about power and control.
Domestic violence is not a relationship problem.
A person using power and control over another is
entirely responsible for his/her behavior and the
outcome.
Domestic violence affects all people in our
society, not only the victim and the perpetrator.
Domestic violence is child abuse; it is a learned
behavior; it affects the whole family and is
cyclical and intergenerational.
Domestic violence feeds on silence.
Therefore, it is our conviction that:
Domestic violence is preventable.
With effective intervention, violent and abusive
behavior and attitudes can be replaced by healthy
behavior and attitudes that are based on equality.
Both men and women must work to end domestic
violence.
Societal norms must change if we are to end
domestic violence.
Approved by the Board of Directors,
November 15, 2001
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