Intimate partner violence (IPV), also known as domestic violence, is a serious public health problem. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found one of three women is hit or sexually assaulted by her intimate partner in her life. Astounding!!! IPV is abuse in a romantic relationship that has lasting, harmful effects. Prevention efforts should promote healthy respectful relationships.
The Archdiocese of Chicago Domestic Violence Outreach (ACDVO) launched a prevention initiative in 2021 focused on teaching middle school students about healthy, respectful, non-violent relationships.
In the past school year, ACDVO implemented the CDC’s curriculum on healthy relationships, Dating Matters (DM), in six Catholic and six Chicago public schools. St. Agnes of Bohemia school was the first school to successfully complete ACDVO’s DM three-year pilot. In the 2023-2024 academic year, the pilot will include eight archdiocesan and six Chicago public schools.
Now DM is about to go international. The Swedish government has decided to implement DM in all its schools. The Swedish team is eager to visit ACDVO schools in Chicago.
If you are a victim or survivor of domestic abuse seeking help:
National Hotline: 1-800-799 SAFE (7233); 1-800-787-3224 (TDD)