How the Iris Domestic Violence Center defends and uplifts the community
How the Iris Domestic Violence Center defends and uplifts the community The Reveille, LSU's student newspaper
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The Louisiana Iris and the Fight Against Domestic Violence
The Louisiana iris is characterized by its strength and resilience in the hot and humid climates it is native to, regrowing each spring despite the difficulties it faces. That unwavering spirit is why the flower is demonstrative of the victims of domestic violence at Iris Domestic Violence Center, according to Executive Director Patti Joy Freeman.
Iris Domestic Violence Center: Providing Support and Resources
Located in Baton Rouge, Iris Domestic Violence Center offers free housing, resources, and legal representation to victims of domestic violence and their children. As the largest domestic violence organization and shelter in Louisiana, Iris serves eight parishes and a population of over 850,000 people.
The Importance of Support for Victims
Domestic violence is a pattern of behaviors used by one partner to maintain power and control over another partner in an intimate relationship, according to the National Domestic Violence Hotline. Iris recognizes the importance of providing support to victims, as they often return to their abuser multiple times before breaking free. The organization aims to raise awareness about available services and empower victims to escape abusive relationships.
Supporting Victims without Forcing Reporting
Iris understands that reporting abuse should be a choice made by the victim. While they encourage victims to seek legal action, Iris does not require them to report the abuse they have experienced. By providing support and resources, Iris aims to help victims regain control of their lives.
Combining Experience and Passion
Patti Joy Freeman, the Executive Director of Iris, brings almost 30 years of experience with the East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Department to her role. Having started and supervised the Domestic Violence Unit, Freeman understands the importance of organizations like Iris in supporting victims.
Comprehensive Services for Victims
Iris’ Safe House Sheltering Services provide housing for over 500 people per year. Victims of domestic violence can stay at Iris for up to 45 days in a private room. Additionally, Iris offers transitional housing programs to help victims work towards sustainable employment, transportation, and permanent safe housing. The organization also accommodates children and works to support them alongside their parents.
Legal Support and Advocacy
Iris collaborates with law enforcement agencies to provide comprehensive support to victims. They offer free attorneys, representation, and advocacy in court for their clients. Iris’ legal team specializes in protective order representation and partners with Southeast Legal for additional legal needs such as divorce or child custody.
Expanding Services through Funding
As a nonprofit organization, Iris heavily relies on government funding and donations. Last year, legislators approved a $7 million increase in funds for domestic violence shelters in Louisiana. To receive this funding, each shelter had to outline new services they would provide to victims. Inspired by this opportunity, Iris opened a children’s center in May 2023 to provide independent support for children affected by domestic violence.
The Fight Against Domestic Violence
Louisiana has one of the highest rates of domestic violence in the country. Freeman’s personal experience with domestic violence fuels her dedication to supporting victims and breaking the cycle of abuse. She believes that by providing care, assistance, and resources to children exposed to violence, society can work towards reducing domestic violence in the long term.
Challenges and Advocacy
Despite the urgent need to uplift victims, Governor Jeff Landry has removed the funding for domestic violence shelters from the state budget. This poses challenges for organizations like Iris in providing crucial support to victims.
A Call for Change
Gwen’s Law, which limits bail eligibility for domestic violence offenders, was passed in Louisiana in 2017. Freeman witnessed the positive impact of this law during her time in law enforcement. She emphasizes the necessity of organizations like Iris in providing outreach, education, and essential services to combat domestic violence.
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
SDG 5: Gender Equality |
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SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions |
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Analysis
1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?
The issues highlighted in the article are connected to SDG 5: Gender Equality and SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions.
2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?
Based on the article’s content, the specific targets that can be identified are:
– Target 5.2: Eliminate all forms of violence against all women and girls in public and private spheres.
– Target 16.1: Significantly reduce all forms of violence and related death rates everywhere.
– Target 16.3: Promote the rule of law at the national and international levels and ensure equal access to justice for all.
3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?
Yes, there are indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets. These indicators include:
– Indicator 5.2.1: Proportion of ever-partnered women and girls subjected to physical, sexual, or psychological violence by a current or former intimate partner in the previous 12 months.
– Indicator 16.1.1: Number of victims of intentional homicide per 100,000 population, by sex and age.
– Indicator 16.3.2: Unsentenced detainees as a proportion of overall prison population.
These indicators can be used to measure progress in reducing violence against women and girls, reducing violence-related death rates, and ensuring equal access to justice.
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
SDG 5: Gender Equality |
|
|
SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions |
|
|
Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.
Source: lsureveille.com
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