Letter to the Editor: Ray Rice and Domestic Violence

To the Editor:

Your front page story of September 9th on Baltimore Ravens’ Ray Rice with the headline “Suspended” brings to the forefront the criminal and potentially deadly issue of domestic violence. The media frenzy that attaches to celebrities, such as Mr. Rice, juxtaposes with a dearth of attention for lesser-known victims.

At Hope’s Door, which has helped victims for more than 30 years, we hear every day about their struggles battling a criminal justice system that puts so-called “father’s rights” ahead of the safety and welfare of victims and their children. I hear women who left abusive partners say that they returned because things only got worse after they left. Indeed, leaving is the most dangerous time for an abused woman, accounting for 75% of domestic violence murders.

There is so much more we could do. The NFL could put prevention at the forefront of their league’s commitment. The media could replace stories of the latest domestic violence murder with an analysis of why women stay and the enormous obstacles they face when leaving. Let your readers know that the costs of domestic violence exceed $5.8 billion annually according to the Centers for Disease Control. What everyone can do is learn our hotline number -888.438.8700 - and refer a friend or family member in danger to us. We are here to help.

Sincerely,

CarlLa Horton, Executive Director

Hope’s Door (914-747-0828)