BPW - Issues

w BPW - Issues


	Issues

Silent Witness Program

"Silent Witness" Domestic Violence Exhibit On View in Bozeman March 29 - April 9, 1999

Life-size, red silhouettes of women who have died from domestic violence were on view March 29 - April 9, 1999 at the Bozeman Public Library. To raise awareness of the escalating problem of domestic violence, Montana Business and Professional Women (BPW) have created an exhibit of life-size figures in memory of the 59 women who have died at the hands of a husband, partner or acquaintance in Montana since 1990. Each "Silent Witness" shares a powerful story of life and loss. These are women who once lived, worked, had neighbors, friends, family and children - before their lives ended in this violent manner. The 59 figures in this display don't represent the pending trials and murders of women where no charges were filed - just the convictions.

Domestic violence is abuse within a family or intimate relationship. While it crosses racial, age, ethnic, sexual, religious, and socio-economic lines, the Bureau of Justice estimates that 90-95% of domestic violence victims are women. Domestic violence is a leading cause of injury for women between the ages of 15 and 44. In homes where partner abuse occurs, children are 1500 times more likely to be abused.

The Silent Witness Initiative began in Minnesota after several murders occurred in 1990. Vickie Amundson and Jerri Miller initiated the Montana Silent Witness project. Vickie is a member of Missoula BPW and Jerri is with Livingston BPW. Through education, legislation and community action, the ultimate goal of the Initiative is to reach zero domestic murders by 2010.

For more information go to www.mtsilentwitness.org