Landing an effective blow
Yes, the photo on A1 Sunday was objectionable. It was insensitive. Hopefully, it also was effective.
To countless viewers and readers, footage and still photos of Ray Rice knocking out the woman who now is his wife made a distant, somewhat surreal topic sickeningly real and timely. Words can't adequately describe what happened in that elevator. The video, on the other hand, was devastating in its ability to immediately drive the point home. It was an uppercut to the lethargy afflicting many Americans who are ignorant or in denial about abuse.
One of the tragedies in this ongoing, pathetic saga of man's inhumanity to man - and particularly to woman - is that it takes a celebrity beating to wake us up to a much larger harsh reality. The truth is, physical abuse goes on all around us. It's a daily occurrence in almost every neighborhood. Someone you know, maybe several someones, are or have been victims of abuse.
The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence reports that one in four women will experience domestic violence in her life. Every year, roughly 1.3 million American women will be victims of physical assault by an intimate partner.
The cyclical nature of abuse dictates that boys who witness domestic violence are twice as likely to abuse their partners or children when they grow up. Literally, then, the beat goes on. What's most terrifying to us is the knowledge that reports of domestic violence and other forms of abuse are among the most under-reported crimes in every community. All the stats that paint the picture of a violent, sick society probably don't come close to painting the entire picture.
The Ray Rice episode, with its shocking video and manifold storylines, could end up doing much good. Men noticed; millions of men likely engaged in some serious personal reflection and perhaps even discussion.
If the Ray Rice episode raises awareness that leads to education and intervention, if it helps encourage victims to report these crimes and get help, then perhaps Rice will one day be better known for something other than carrying a football in the NFL, particularly if he changes his attitude and behavior. The image of him dragging his unconscious girlfriend from an Atlantic City casino elevator might well be objectionable and insensitive, but it could also help tip the scales in the war against domestic violence.
Locally, here's what you need to know. If you're in immediate danger, call 9-1-1. If you or a loved one needs help, call 664-9303. Professionals at the North Idaho Violence Prevention Center are there for you.
Are you a victim of violence? Call (208) 664-9303 for help.