POLICY ISSUES: DOMESTIC VIOLENCE  

With a fearless and unwavering approach to combating domestic violence, Borough President Ruben Diaz is working to empower survivors of abuse by creating greater awareness and ensuring their safety so they can live without fear and get the help they need.

KEEPING SURVIVORS SAFE

Encouraging Enforcement Policies
In the past, domestic violence abusers were rarely arrested or punished for their crimes. To keep victims safe, the Borough President has partnered with the Bronx District Attorney and Sanctuary for Families to improve enforcement policies of arrests and protections orders. 

Domestic Violence in the Workplace
Co-workers are often first to spot signs of domestic violence among fellow co-workers, but often do not know how to help. In response, the Borough President developed the “Domestic Violence in the Workplace Lecture Series”. The lecture series helps employers partner with community resources and develop policies, procedures, and prevention strategies to assist employees in abusive relationships.  

Helping Survivors find a Safe Home
After domestic violence survivors leave their abusers, it is critical to ensure their safety by providing safe and affordable housing. To help survivors find safe housing, Borough President Diaz gave $1 million for the construction of “New Destiny Housing”, an affordable housing complex for survivors of domestic violence.  

Increasing Fair Access to Family Court
Until recently, New York State limited access to Family Court to “members of the same family household” -people who are related by blood, marriage or have children in common.  Teens, unmarried couples, LGBT partners and unmarried pregnant women in abusive relationships cannot obtain orders of protection from Family Court. To provide greater protection for all victims, the Borough President advocated for the recent change in state law that expands fair access to Family Court for all victims of domestic abuse.  

Raising Awareness
Ending domestic violence is not possible without empowering people through greater awareness and resources. Annual events like the Borough President’s “DiVA Spa” provide an inviting atmosphere where people can receive free spa services while also learning about domestic violence and available services. The Borough President also hosts an annual “DiVA Talk” on News 12, The Bronx, where a live audience and callers have the opportunity to speak to on-site counselors.  

CONTINUING WORK FOR THE FUTURE

Providing Coordinated Assistance
Accessing social and legal services is a daunting process for victims who have few resources and are still living in fear. In order to make accessing services easier, Borough President Diaz is currently working with the Mayor’s Office to Combat Domestic Violence to open The Bronx Family Justice Center. The Bronx Family Justice Center will provide direct access to social and legal services in one convenient location in a safe and supportive environment. 

Addressing Teen Dating Violence
Dating violence among our youth is a rising issue in our city.  Teen dating violence can include physical, sexual, verbal, emotional and/or psychological abuse.  In order to address this issue, Borough President Diaz is partnering with Pregones Theater to create “The Phone Call: Texting for Life”, an inter-active play that will travel through Bronx high schools to teach students about domestic violence.