Domestic violence statistics tend to be shocking — for example, that intimate partner violence makes up 15% of all violent crime, or that the average American woman stays in an abusive relationship for seven years. But recently, Women of Vision Manager Iris Leon encountered a statistic that floored her: the average Jewish-American woman remains in an abusive relationship twice as long, remaining tethered to her abuser for 14 years.
“Whether it’s physical, emotional or economic abuse, this is an issue of great relevance and importance, but we don’t acknowledge it enough,” says Iris. Women of Vision, an affinity group of Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia, is working to change that. Through grantmaking, education and a series of book clubs, their efforts in recent years have helped to deepen our communities’ understanding of domestic violence through a Jewish lens.
This year, at Women of Vision’s spring luncheon on May 15th, they will host a powerful discussion on domestic violence in our Jewish communities, featuring a panel whose collective expertise reflects the expansiveness of the problem. Experts include Maria Macaluso of Women’s Center of Montgomery County; Rabbi Rachel Kobrin of Congregation Adath Jeshurun; Robin Axelrod Sabag of Jewish Family & Children’s Service; and Dr. Susan Sorenson of the University of Pennsylvania. A domestic abuse survivor will also share her story.
In addition to the panel, the audience will hear presentations on behalf of four organizations vying for Women of Vision grants, including two focusing on domestic violence. It’s certain to be a meaningful and thought-provoking afternoon. For more information or to register for the Women of Vision spring luncheon, click here.
