Together, we can
end domestic violence
The Kauai Commission on the Status of Women, Kauai Domestic Violence Prevention Task Force, YWCA of Kauai, and Zonta Club of Kauai share the same vision for the women and girls of Kauai. We clearly imagine our island community and all communities around the world where women and girls are empowered to reach their full potential.
Where communities are safer, healthier and thriving; free from gender-based violence, free from unequal pay and where there’s equal representation in government and in board rooms.
One of the greatest obstacles worldwide to females’ positive health and well-being is gender-based violence in the forms of domestic violence and sexual assault.
It would be a mistake to believe that females are the only victims of these crimes; we fully acknowledge males are also victims of domestic violence and sexual assault and deserve the same support services and justice as women and girls.
However, it remains a hard fact that women and girls on Kauai, in Hawaii, and around the world are without question the primary victims of domestic violence and sexual assault by an overwhelming margin.
Domestic violence and sexual assault have a devastating impact on our community every day in so many ways. Possible consequences include loss of life, short and long term health issues, substance abuse, short and long term mental health issues, financial insecurities, homelessness, children traumatized, unemployment and more.
On Kauai, the YWCA’s domestic violence hotline receives an average of 600 calls every year with over 120 adults and children seeking emergency shelter after fleeing unsafe homes. These statistics provide a snapshot of those that seek assistance; yet, we know it isn’t the complete picture of domestic violence here on Kauai. Domestic Violence calls are one of the most frequent type of calls the Kauai Police Department responds to from one end of the island to the other.
Domestic violence is a threat to our community. Collectively, we believe this can change. We can end this. It will take each and every one of us to free our island of domestic violence and sexual assault.
In order to end gender based violence, our entire community has to work together. Join the rising voices calling for full accountability for domestic violence perpetrators and sex offenders. Participate in community events and awareness efforts.
Help a neighbor, friend or family member who is experiencing domestic violence or has been sexually assaulted. Intervene by calling the police if you witness domestic violence or hear it happening next door. Call the 24-hour crisis line 245-6362 for help or more information.
Renae Hamilton-Cambeilh
Executive Director, YWCA Kauai
The board and staff of the YWCA
Zonta Club of Kauai
Zonta Club of Hanalei
Kauai DV Prevention Task Force
County of Kauai Commission on the Status of Women
