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Last month, I gave a brief description<br />
of domestic violence. Whether it is<br />
overlooked, excused, denied or a<br />
complacent attitude, many believe domestic<br />
abuse and sexual violence are concerns meant<br />
only for law enforcement<br />
and its victims. Law<br />
enforcement will do its<br />
part to continue their<br />
fight against domestic<br />
abuse, however, the<br />
community as a whole<br />
must bring light into the<br />
darkness of domestic<br />
violence.<br />
Community members<br />
must recognize that the<br />
safety of victims and<br />
the accountability of<br />
perpetrators rests on<br />
the shoulders of each<br />
and every one of us. That’s why the community<br />
group, People United for Living in Safe<br />
Environments was created. Because prevention<br />
is vital to stopping violence, PULSE aims to stop<br />
domestic and sexual violence before it occurs.<br />
Through the use of public education,<br />
community support, community involvement<br />
and intervention, PULSE strives to change<br />
social norms and misconceptions of domestic<br />
abuse and violent behavior. It is a task force of<br />
members from the community who share the<br />
belief that domestic abuse and sexual violence<br />
can be eradicated when society as a whole<br />
confronts the issue.<br />
Whether one is a teacher, law enforcement<br />
officer, construction worker, member of the<br />
By Mike Wetsch<br />
SAFETY TIP |<br />
clergy, coach or homemaker, PULSE believes that<br />
all have vital abilities and ideas that are pertinent<br />
in the struggle against domestic violence. When<br />
a group of diverse people comes together,<br />
there is greater opportunity for the creation<br />
and development of<br />
numerous ideas that<br />
add to the probability<br />
of success.<br />
Even though the<br />
program is facilitated<br />
by the Abused Adult<br />
Resource Center, the<br />
ownership, success and<br />
courses of action rests<br />
upon the members of<br />
PULSE.<br />
Because we all share<br />
the responsibility<br />
of making our<br />
communities safe,<br />
members of our community are invited and<br />
encouraged to become members of PULSE.<br />
Those wishing to become a PULSE member or<br />
receive more information are encouraged to<br />
contact the Abused Adult Resource Center at<br />
(701) 222-8370.<br />
Mike Wetsch is a deputy with the Burleigh County<br />
Sheriff's Department and is assigned to the patrol<br />
division. He is also a criminal justice instructor at<br />
Rasmussen College.<br />
Safety Tip is sponsored by:<br />
November 2009 43
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