Hey listen, there’s something we have to talk about.
Relationships are messy. Families are too. We all get into arguments with people we love and sometimes we get hurt or hurt someone else. But there’s a difference between an occasional mistake and a repeated cycle of harm.
Domestic violence doesn’t discriminate—it can be used by any of us, against any of us. And we can’t keep on ignoring it even if it makes us uncomfortable. Because we’re all responsible for caring for one another.
If we want to do something about domestic violence (DV), we need to have the courage to start real conversations with our friends and family, and to unearth often invisible patterns of hurt.
Sometimes we may need to bring up uncomfortable topics and challenge long-held beliefs—beliefs about boundaries and respect; or beliefs about what women deserve. Other times, we may start taking new, caring actions in our families and friendships.
We can all start with small steps. A knowing nod, a tilt of the head, an offer to chat, a resource to share. These things make a difference.
Together, we can help lift up each other’s voices. Together, we can make our communities safer and more supported.
SEE THE CAMPAIGN IN SF AND OAKLAND
Through our partnership with BART, Let’s Talk About Us will reach thousands of passengers each day in more than one dozen stations systemwide, onboard trains serving each BART line, and on bus shelters and billboards in 5 neighborhoods including Chinatown, SoMa and the Mission. BART embraced the campaign and partnership in recognition that domestic violence happens in the BART system.