Domestic and family violence (DFV) has long been a private issue, suffered behind closed doors.
The Place of Courage seeks to change that. By establishing a permanent visible tribute to the victims and survivors of DFV, we as a community, are publicly acknowledging that it exists, and it is our problem.
Help change the discourse on domestic and family violence
We all know the devastating impact that DFV has on individuals, on families and on our communities. Countless lives are lost or damaged beyond repair with problems such as depression, chronic stress, anxiety disorders, drug use, illness, self-mutilation, disordered eating, smoking, STDs, alcoholism and cancer, directly related to the trauma of DFV.
Yet despite all the work that is done to reduce the incidence of DFV, it is not happening.
We believe that The Place of Courage will be a catalyst for change.
"The Salvation Army believes that the creation of a public space that draws people together to commemorate and remember those affected by domestic and family violence will significantly assist men, women and children to address the shame that is part of the cycle of violence and provide a catalyst for further dialogue and community response"– Barry Casey, Divisional Commander, SA Division, Salvation Army
The Place of Courage is the first public artwork and space of its kind, dedicated to the victims and survivors of DFV.
It is a tangible way we can bring about change. It will provide a concrete reality that can no longer be ignored. It will bring DFV from the private home into the public arena where it can be addressed.
Let’s help remove the guilt and the shame, the fear and the blame. Let’s pay a permanent tribute to those who have died and those who have survived, and commit to ending the violence in whatever ways we can.
What does this mean?
DFV is intergenerational with long-term consequences. By shining a light on DFV through the establishment of The Place of Courage, it will:
Help to reduce trauma, mental health illnesses, addictions, and dysfunctional behaviours in our community
Alleviate the burden placed on our support agencies and not-for-profit organisations, freeing up resources
Decrease the DFV murder rate and suicide rate, saving innocent lives.
