Violence between intimate partners is a significant public health issue. Domestic violence (DV) affects the victim’s physical, emotional, and psychological health for years. Gender-based violence has been dubbed the “shadow pandemic” as the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic led to more residents isolating and staying home. For those experiencing DV, this puts them in close quarters with and at the mercy of their abuser.
In an effort to raise awareness and build a statewide community coordinated response to DV, the Hawai‘i Public Health Training Hui partnered with the Hawai‘i State Department of Health and the State Judiciary to host a four-part webinar series. We were joined by national experts and leaders Julie Germann, Erica Olson, and David Thomas. Julie and Erica kicked off the series with evidence-based practices and strategies to build and sustain effective multidisciplinary collaboration to ensure better outcomes for victims and survivors. Mr. Thomas delivered powerful messages on the importance of having a clear understanding of gender-based violence and conducting victim-centered, trauma-informed investigations on site.
This webinar series averaged 125 attendees and provided continuing education credits in the following six topic areas: social work, substance abuse, certified prevention specialist, registered dietetics, community health education specialist, and legal. To stay up to date on future training opportunities, please contact Makamae Namahoe at makamae@hiphi.org to join our listserv!
If you or someone you know is experiencing physical violence or emotional abuse,please visit the National Network to End Domestic Violence, the Family Justice Alliance Center as well as our local Hawai‘i State Coalition against Domestic Violence for resources and help.
