by Kim Bryan

SAFE San Juans Director

Without the commitment and persistent hard work of many strong women over the last three decades, there would be no SAFE San Juans, an organization formerly known as DVSAS.

Historically, domestic violence and sexual assault have been considered “women’s issues.”

The majority of the victims and survivors, and most of the folks taking action to help and empower are female.

However, currently here in the San Juan Islands, we are proud to acknowledge that folks of all genders are standing shoulder to shoulder in solidarity stating that, “Everyone Deserves to Live Free of Abuse.”

After all, a recent U.S. Department of Justice study reveals that 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men have experienced some form of physical violence in an intimate partner relationship.

You are invited to join us as we continue to challenge the notion that domestic violence and sexual assault are “women’s issues” and recognize together these are in reality “human being issues.”

We will always be grateful to the original strong women who had the foresight and courage to make a difference for their island sisters.

Their strength and fortitude continue to help us reach even higher as we aspire to empower all of our island communities to live free of abuse

For more information about SAFE San Juans and the services and resources we offer check us out at www.SAFEsj.org.

There are 24/7 help lines on each island — San Juan: 360-378-2345; Orcas: 360-376-1234; Lopez: 360-468-4567.