Jane shares her message to inspire victims of domestic violence
As we celebrate International Women's Day, let us remember those affected by domestic abuse.
Global estimates published by WHO indicate that about 1 in 3 (35%) women worldwide have experienced either physical and/or sexual intimate partner violence or non-partner sexual violence in their lifetime.
In this day and age of digital cocaine allegations of abuse, especially in an era of trial by social media, usually ends in a stone throwing contest of 'he said, she said’.
Read: Domestic abuse survivor urges others to speak out about their abuse
Photojournalist Donna Ferrato is well known for her coverage on domestic violence. For over 20 years, she's been documenting the effects of domestic violence on abused women and their children. Her moving photos have been shot in places like shelters, courtrooms and even in hospital emergency rooms.
One of her pictures that stands out for me is of a little boy in the car smashing a doll, imitating his father after he got arrested for domestic violence. It absolutely just made me shudder. Monkey see, monkey do.
Donna's images are part of an exhibition and publication called "Living with the Enemy” and the heartbreaking pictures have captions by the photographer which includes snippets of conversations by the victims and even the perpetrators of domestic violence.
They are full of raw vulnerability, sadness, broken trust and fear. Domestic violence is often covered up by fabricated stories together with a good foundation and a mindset of 'things will change’, 'he didn't mean it’, 'it was my fault’, 'he loves me’ and 'he's sorry’.
From one women to another on this day of valuing and acknowledging our worth, I urge you to get out of relationships and situations that are bad for you. You are so worth it, and no, it's not ok to stay in a bad relationship.
Read: Thousands march ahead of International Women's Day 2017
Sending you love today and always x
Warning: Some of the images may not be suitable for sensitive viewers