Trigger Warning: This post contains graphic images of domestic violence, and may be triggering for survivors of abuse.
One woman has decided to try to help people understand how exceptionally serious domestic violence can be.
37-year-old Angela Brower, has shared graphic images of her battered face online, to help raise awareness. She says that she recently broke up with her boyfriend, after he became physically and emotionally abuse towards her.
One day after the break up, when he came to collect some of his belongings from her, he instead beat her to the ground.
Brower told The Huffington Post, “The orbital bone around my eye was completely shattered and my nose was broken on both sides and very displaced.”
She was hospitalised after the attack – but when she was released she wanted to make a statement. She wanted to make people take domestic violence seriously.
And so she posted the pictures of her face on Facebook, with the text: “”Does this look like LOVE TO ANYONE OF YOU?”
“I want to raise awareness for women who are afraid and ashamed of what has been done to them,” she said. “They blame themselves. I want them to know that it is not their fault.”
If you believe you may be an abusive partner, you can receive help via Relationships Australia on 1300 364 277. If you have experienced, or are at risk of domestic violence or sexual assault, you can receive help by calling 1800 RESPECT – 1800 737 732. If you are in immediate danger please call the police on 000.
Here are some Australian and international campaigns aimed at tackling domestic violence. Which do you think is most effective?
Do you think photos like these are an effective way to raise awareness about domestic violence?
