Today's day of action begins with a virtual discussion between survivors and advocates as they discuss the realities of domestic violence in our community. https://www.omahawomensfund.org/30-days-of-action/day-20/

A trauma-informed response is necessary for working with survivors. Bruises might not be present. The tone in a survivor's voice may be panicky or not. Each survivor's experience is different and complex and so is their response. Start from a place of believing.

Domestic violence is still thought of as a home or family issue that can be taken care of inside the house. It is okay to ask for help. If you need immediate assistance, call the @wcaomaha 24-hour hotline at 402-345-7273.

Don't try to fit survivors in a box. Their trauma and experiences are complex and so response to their lived experience to help identify their needs should be flexible and led by the survivor.

Have compassion. If someone discloses a trauma to you, they are person standing in front of you asking you for help. Check your ego and biases at the door. Lead with compassion.

Trauma-informed means giving individuals choices and empowering them to make decisions that work for them by giving them the power and control back in their hands.

If you are working in a space serving and advocating for domestic violence survivors without the work being informed and led by survivors, it's not trauma-informed.

Follow survivors. Listen to survivors. Believe survivors.

Even before COVID-19, housing for survivors has been a challenge in the Omaha community. This is a barrier to economic self-sufficiency for survivors.

Being in an abusive relationship and being in that cycle of abuse is not a choice. If it was easy to get out, people wouldn't stay. The danger comes when survivors try to leave. Don't judge. Educate yourself on the cycle of abuse. Be there and provide support.

As a community, we have to hold each other accountable for our behavior, our language and upholding systems of oppression. What conversations are you having with your children? How are you talking with leaders?

In Native communities, there is historical trauma that continues to show up and impact individuals. Open the dialogue and create responses that will help people now but also will positively impact someone in seven generations.