The other day, I was sitting with a group of young boys at a detention center, just having a real conversation. No judgment. No pretense. Just listening. As we talked, I asked a simple but powerful question:
“What would it take for you to change from the old you to the new you who you want to become?”
March is Women’s History Month, a time to celebrate the achievements and resilience of women who have shaped history. In the fight against domestic violence, many brave women have used their voices, experiences, and leadership to advocate for survivors, push for legal reforms, and build support systems. These pioneers have laid the foundation for today’s domestic violence movement, ensuring that survivors receive the help and justice they deserve.
Teen relationships should be fun, safe, and built on mutual respect. But for too many teens, dating turns into something dangerous—something that hurts instead of uplifts. February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, a time to shine a light on an issue that affects 1 in 3 teens in the U.S. If you’re in an unhealthy relationship, know someone who is, or just want to be prepared to support a friend, keep reading.
As October comes to an end, the pressing issue of gender-based violence, particularly domestic violence, remains at the forefront of our mission. Throughout Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM), the Harris County Domestic Violence Coordinating Council (HCDVCC), alongside our incredible community partners, dedicated time to amplifying the conversation around recognizing, responding to, and making referrals for domestic violence.
Throughout the month, the HCDVCC team had the privilege of supporting our partners at various events, including The Bridge, Fresh Spirit, Aid to Victims of Dometic Abuse (AVDA), and An Nisa Hope Center, who graciously invited us to participate in their galas and luncheons.
As the Protective Court Mobile Advocate for HCDVCC, I provide support to the 280th Court. This Court is a specific civil district court in Harris County that oversees protective orders. It is located within the Harris County Juvenile Justice Center, 1200 Congress, in downtown Houston on the 1st floor. The Honorable Damiane Dianne Curvey is the presiding judge.
Protective orders are civil legal lawsuits that restrict proximity to a home, work, school and prohibit certain behaviors like abuse, harassment and/or stalking of a survivor. If the order is violated, the person can be arrested.
We have an ACTION ALERT we would like to share! We would love for you to join us in speaking and/or showing up at Commissioner’s Court on Tuesday September 10 in support of the budget to continue Domestic Violence Assistance Funds.
We are thrilled that Harris County is recognizing the value of this important fund for survivors, and we are beyond grateful that Commissioners are considering the continuation of this assistance. This is exciting news for our county, and we need YOUR HELP to make sure we voice our support for this fund!
