In a single day in 2013, New Mexico domestic violence programs served 951 victims. Police responded to 18,954 domestic violence calls, 12,027 cases were filed in magistrate court, and judges issued 7,606 domestic violence protective orders. These and other domestic violence statistics are staggering – but can be combatted through community action and awareness.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month and the University of New Mexico is joining cities, campuses and communities nationwide in advocating for healthier relationships.

“We’re seeing this topic of healthy relationships come up often at peer institutions and it’s something we want discussed more here at UNM,” said Olivia Torres Jojola with the LoboRESPECT Advocacy Center. “So, not only is it addressed in our Grey Area and Finding the Line Trainings, but now it will also be seen on our social media platforms during this very important month.”

"Finding the Line" Trainings

One-hour workshop on healthy relationships to help raise awareness about the frequency of intimate partner and relationship violence, while emphasizing skill-building. Attendees are given the opportunity to practice recognizing healthy, unhealthy and abusive behaviors, to learn more about what healthy and unhealthy boundaries look like and to identify strategies for supporting a friend who may be in an unhealthy partnership.

This year, the LoboRESPECT Advocacy Center is asking members of the UNM community to think about what a healthy relationship looks like to them, then share their thoughts on social media. By using hashtags like #domesticviolenceawareness #domesticviolencemonth #dvamonth and #dva2019, LoboRESPECT will track Lobo’s answers and share them over the next few weeks.

The awareness campaign aims at starting a conversation about what healthy relationships look like and how communities can encourage and support them. If Lobos would like to learn more about clear boundaries and healthy relationships, LoboRESPECT offers "Finding the Line" trainings specifically designed to help.

In addition to the social media campaign, UNM is supporting the National Network to End Domestic Violence by participating in Purple Day on Oct. 24. All offices and departments are welcome to join in wearing the color purple to increase awareness of domestic violence.

Advocates are always available on campus at the LoboRESPECT Advocacy Center, the Women’s Resource Center, the LGBTQ Resource Center and the Agora Crisis Center.