Find courage to act against domestic violence and sexual assault

During the first 10 years of this century, Alaska State Troopers responded to or investigated nearly 36,000 domestic violence offenses. They responded to or investigated more than 4,000 sexual assault offenses and 5,000 instances of sexual abuse of minors.

Unfortunately, these reported instances of domestic violence and sexual assault represent the tip of the iceberg in Alaska. Too many go unreported, and too many perpetrators get away with these crimes.

The reality is that domestic violence and sexual assault have continued, generation after generation in our state, in spite of the valiant efforts of organizations that make it their mission to end this reign of terror.

To be a healthy state, we all need to step up and help. We start by shining light on what has been too long ignored and demanding respect for all Alaskans. All Alaskans are valued.

How often have we asked ourselves, “Why doesn’t she just leave?” or “Why didn’t she call the police?”

These choices are anything but easy. They require getting others involved and overcoming fear, embarrassment, self-doubt and shame. The decision to leave or report leads to upheaval in families as secret, horrific crimes are brought to light. And sometimes, it’s just difficult to see safe alternatives.

Thousands of victims across Alaska survive on the hope they’ll be spared another violent attack. Turning to family and friends, they may be met with criticism and blame.

Yet without support from others, without action or intervention, victims’ lives often do not improve. Too often, they end up dead.

This is where you and I can make a difference. We can lend our courage to victims and survivors by taking a visible and vocal stand for what we want as a social norm — respect for all.

Join me and others across Alaska during a statewide act of prevention and intervention — a “Choose Respect” rally — on March 29 at noon.

In the Mat-Su area, there are several marches taking place:

• In Palmer, Alaskans will gather at the MTA Events Center parking lot and march to the Palmer Community Center Train Depot.

• In Sutton, gather at the Chickaloon Village Traditional Council Government Building and march to the Sutton Public Library.

• If you’re in Wasilla, the location is Newcomb Park at the Wasilla Lake parking lot and the march will proceed to the picnic pavilion.

• In Willow, meet at the parking lot of the Willow Sunshine Community Health Center.

After last year’s “Choose Respect” rallies, I heard from many survivors. They said seeing their neighbors hold signs against domestic violence and sexual assault helped them take concrete steps toward safety and healing. Others found the courage to speak publicly about the harm inflicted upon them, and their survival.

As a state, we’re increasing law enforcement efforts in this arena, but never underestimate the positive impact you have on fellow Alaskans by simply showing up at a “Choose Respect” event; 119 Alaska communities are taking part this year.

We can also lend our courage by being more aware of those around us and by learning the signals of possible physical or sexual abuse. Resources on signs and symptoms of abuse and information about how to get involved are found at the “Choose Respect” website, chooserespect.alaska.gov.

Sean Parnell is governor of Alaska.