As we approach the end of an extremely difficult year, we are provided with some cause for optimism by the results of the US presidential election. Despite outstanding circumstances, not least of which being the COVID-19 pandemic, more Americans voted than ever before.
The victory of President-Elect Joe Biden and VP-Elect Kamala Harris gives us the chance to pause and breathe a sigh of relief. We know that the hard work is just beginning, whether that relates to the Violence Against Women Act (still not reauthorized by the Senate, and in need of critical enhancements) or broader issues of equality and justice, not always thought of as connected to domestic violence.
In order to meaningfully address domestic violence, Between Friends believes we must address economic inequality, racism (including police violence), transphobia, xenophobia, misogyny, ableism, and all forms of structural inequality and oppression. None of this is guaranteed by any election result. But there is a greater window of hope now, with an administration that is at the very least committed to these causes in principle, and can therefore be pressured to enact positive change.
Between Friends recognizes the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the physical safety, financial stability, and emotional wellbeing of our current and former clients. We are therefore encouraged that the Biden administration is putting forward a COVID-19 plan that recognizes not only the science of the virus but also its socio-economic impact. We can now hope for at least the possibility of a coordinated, science-based federal response to COVID. However, the pandemic cannot be addressed without urgent action at the state and municipal level.
There are great challenges ahead, but Between Friends remains committed to facing them — working with a holistic vision towards a world in which we have ended the cycle of domestic abuse.