October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month and Rockford held a two-mile march to bring awareness to the problem, as well as show support for its victims and survivors. Hundreds of people attended the Mayor’s March Against Domestic Violence. It was led by serious, positive bipartisan community leaders.
Dr. Angie Schmidt was there. Schmidt is a licensed psychologist and shared insights and suggestions about how to help victims and survivors of domestic violence.
"First, don’t be afraid to ask someone. Second, support political candidates, and government agencies, and non-profit agencies that are trying to make a difference. Every agency in town that works with abused people needs volunteers, so ask how you can volunteer. And if you can’t give your time, maybe you can give a blanket or a care set of shampoo and things so that people can feel like humans."
Schmidt says she sees people from “every phase of life” presenting with the same confusing problem. They are the early-married, the high school daters, and even senior citizens. They each speak to the physical, sexual, and verbal abuse they receive from someone they love.
Schmidt says the problem is pervasive in the community and that death is often the result of domestic violence.
Schmidt also notes that the victims can be men.
Schmidt expressed appreciation for the bipartisan efforts of Mayor Tom McNamara and other essential community leaders including Police Chief Dan O'Shea, Hon. Rosemary Collins, Jennifer Caccipaglia, Lori Johnson, Ald. Jonathan Logemann, Ald. Joseph Chiarelli, Police Lieutenant Carla Redd, and the hundreds of marchers.
When asked, "Are you optimistic?" Dr. Schmidt replied, "You know? I am."