Domestic violence should never be “just a small case.” Yet, in many communities, it has become so normalized that people treat it as an ordinary disagreement between couples. Today, I witnessed something that shook me deeply,not just because of what happened, but because of how people reacted.
A Cry for Help
Earlier today, my neighbour’s girlfriend was being assaulted. I could hear her shouting in pain, screaming that he was suffocating her. My heart pounded. I wanted to get there fast, but I had lost my keys and couldn’t open the gate immediately.
When I finally got out, I rushed to get help from people I knew nearby. A man and two women followed me, and together, we approached the house. My neighbour opened the door. I didn’t want to get too close because the scene triggered my PTSD from when my father used to violently abuse my mom. Just being there brought back memories I’ve tried so hard to forget.
“Just a Small Case”
The man who came with us spoke to my neighbour, but within minutes, they all emerged saying:
“It’s just a small case of domestic violence. Let them solve their issues, but if he starts beating her again, call us.
I was stunned. How can we call something “small” when it leaves someone bruised, terrified, and stripped of their dignity? What about later, at night, when no one is there to intervene? What if next time, it’s too late?
To make matters worse, the man had taken her phone, leaving her unable to call her family for help.
Why This is Dangerous
When we downplay domestic violence as “normal,” we enable the cycle to continue. Today it’s “just a slap” or “just an argument.” Tomorrow, it could be a hospital visit,or a funeral.
This kind of tolerance teaches victims to accept abuse as part of love and teaches abusers that there are no real consequences. In many cases, victims feel trapped, especially when abusers control their communication and movement.
Breaking the Cycle
Domestic violence is not a private matter, it’s a crime. If you witness abuse, your intervention could save a life. Sometimes that means calling the authorities immediately. Sometimes it’s helping the victim find a safe way out. What it should never mean is walking away and hoping “love will fix it.”
We have to change the way we see and respond to abuse. Protecting someone in danger is not interfering, it’s doing the right thing.
Final thought: If you hear cries for help, believe them. Act on them. Your voice, your call, or your presence could be the difference between life and death.
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People who are experiening Domestic Violence must lear to speak up, please , don't die in silent, seek help when neccessary.