The Shadow Pandemic: Domestic Violence
Photo courtesy Canary Media
As advocates for equality, we put gender-based violence at the top of our list of issues to address when we started the Michael Stars Foundation nearly 20 years ago.
We’ve long supported organizations working to end domestic violence, and have been alarmed to learn about the global surge of cases caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The situation is so grave that UN Women’s new report calls it a shadow pandemic.
Emerging data show that since the outbreak, violence against women and girls has intensified with domestic abuse hotlines in France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the U.K., U.S. and other countries reporting an average 30% increase in calls.
CNN reported that nine of the 20 largest metropolitan police departments reported "double-digit percentage jumps" in domestic violence 911 calls cases in March compared to the same time last year.
Leaders of domestic violence advocacy organizations attribute this rise in cases to extreme conditions created by the pandemic:
Emotional and financial stress causing perpetrators to take it out on their partners and children
Women staying in abusive situations because they fear exposure to COVID-19 in shelters
Cramped living quarters due to stay at home orders is making it harder for survivors to report incidents safely
One for All: Emergency Funds to Survivors
As part of our “One for All” initiative, focused on helping vulnerable communities hard hit by COVID-19, we’re supporting a national non-profit organization called FreeFrom that creates pathways to financial security and long-term safety for survivors of gender-based violence.
The Michael Stars Foundation is contributing a total of $10,000 to the FreeFrom Safety Fund for Survivors by donating a portion of sales from our one-size tees.
The $75,000 Safety Fund was formed to get cash directly into the hands of survivors who need it to stay safe. These cash grants help survivors pay for basic needs and keep them from having to return to abusive situations.
COVID-19 continues to challenge us on every possible level.
I draw so much energy and inspiration from the brave, resourceful, and powerful work that organizations like Free From are doing. We’re honored to support them and other advocacy groups that keep fighting for our most vulnerable communities.