the essential guide - Texas Council on Family Violence

Chapter 10: Doing <strong>the</strong> WorkIn this chapter, you will: Explore how your identity shapes your perspective. Review appropriate boundary setting for advocates. Identify <strong>the</strong> importance of finding support systems and attending to self care.“When I dare to be powerful, to use my strength in <strong>the</strong> service of my vision, <strong>the</strong>n it becomes lessand less important whe<strong>the</strong>r I am afraid.” – Audre LordeFamily Violence Advocacy is important, meaningful work, but it is also intense and demanding. If youhave strong self-awareness, connection to <strong>the</strong> mission and values of your organization and <strong>the</strong>movement, and a supportive network, you are well on your way to finding balance and fulfillment in youradvocacy.Getting to Know Yourself BetterThe Social Ecological Model in Chapter 2 highlights <strong>the</strong> importance of self-knowledge and self-awarenessbecause <strong>the</strong> individual is at <strong>the</strong> core of every interaction. In order to come to this work with an objective,open mind, you must recognize your own cultural lens and perspective on <strong>the</strong> world. How do you identify? What parts of your culture and identity are important to you? How have <strong>the</strong>y influenced you?Setting BoundariesHealthy boundaries are an <strong>essential</strong> part of healthy relationships. In your advocacy work, survivors willshare intimate details of <strong>the</strong>ir lives, sometimes sharing things <strong>the</strong>y’ve never said aloud before. You mustset and maintain ethical boundaries in order to navigate this sensitive and personal terrain in a way thatis respectful and supportive of those you serve. Tips for setting healthy boundaries: Don’t do something for one client that you wouldn’t normally do for o<strong>the</strong>rs. Although you wantto meet survivors where <strong>the</strong>y are and provide individualized services, it’s not okay play favorites. Don’t keep secrets. There’s a difference between confidentiality and secrets. Don’t engage in dual relationships. You cannot have an outside relationship with a survivor as itwill interfere with your ability to be a good advocate. Do meet <strong>the</strong> needs of <strong>the</strong> client. Advocacy is a support service. It is a one-way relationship thatfocuses on <strong>the</strong> client. Do reserve <strong>the</strong> right to say no. It’s okay to say no, as long as you do it respectfully. Do discuss questions or concerns about boundaries with your supervisor. This work iscomplicated, and it’s helpful to get ano<strong>the</strong>r perspective and some guidance when making difficultdecisions.THE ESSENTIAL GUIDE: AN INTRODUCTION TO ADVOCATING FOR SURVIVORS OF FAMILY VIOLENCE63 | P a g e