Birmingham Community Rally Raises Awareness for Domestic Violence Among Black Women
As Birmingham commemorates National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the need for resources and support for Black women facing disproportionately high rates of intimate partner violence has never been clearer. Tina Thornton, founder and director of SOLE Recovery LLC (Survivors Overcoming Life Experiences), is leading the charge to put a spotlight on this pressing issue.
A Personal Journey
Thornton is not just an advocate; she is a survivor. After enduring a tumultuous and violent 22-year marriage, she understands the struggles faced by women trying to escape abusive relationships. Reflecting on her past, she shared, “I couldn’t even use the phone in my home; my ex-husband had removed all of them. My family was not a place where I felt I could share what I was experiencing.” This painful experience motivated her to create SOLE in 2003, initially as a small, unofficial ministry. The program allowed women to gather, share their stories, and begin the healing process.
As Thornton explains, SOLE’s faith-based, holistic approach helps individuals find refuge and face their struggles with self-reflection and empowerment. “There’s a lot of self-reflection to encourage them to step beyond what they’ve been told or what they believe,” she states.
Staggering Statistics
Statistics paint a disturbing picture of the realities facing Black women. According to national data, an alarming 45.1 percent of Black women will experience physical violence, sexual violence, or stalking by an intimate partner. Women aged 18 to 35 are particularly vulnerable, being 2.5 times more likely to be killed by a male partner than their white counterparts. In fact, 92 percent of these tragic incidents involve women who knew their assailants.
Building Community Support
Thornton’s efforts have garnered attention from local leaders. Jefferson County Commissioner Sheila Tyson has been a steadfast supporter of SOLE from its inception in 2003. “I’ve been volunteering with Tina Thornton since 2004,” Tyson said. “We’ve had several incidents where a female and her children needed urgent help, and SOLE Recovery was able to provide safe housing for them.” Her passion for helping survivors stems from personal experiences, expressing, “We grew up around it, but it was a secret you kept in your home… now that I can address some of these issues and help, I’m willing to do that.”
A Holistic Approach to Healing
Thornton, who holds a bachelor’s degree in human services and psychology from Upper Iowa University and is pursuing a master’s in counseling, has created a series of partnerships to enhance the services SOLE offers. Collaborating with organizations like One Roof, YWCA, and The Salvation Army, SOLE provides emergency shelter, essential clothing, and food supplies. “We are committed to assisting survivors as much as possible,” Thornton noted. They also help women obtain bus passes for convenient transportation.
Addressing Mental and Emotional Challenges
Despite these resources, Thornton acknowledges the significant mental and emotional challenges survivors face when attempting to leave abusive relationships. Many women struggle with generational trauma and denial about their circumstances, often believing they can change their partners. “They think they can build a man like Build-a-Bear,” she said, emphasizing the importance of helping them recognize their own worth beyond a relationship.
Recognizing the Signs of Abuse
Awareness is key. Thornton encourages community members to pay attention to behavioral changes, such as withdrawal from social circles, drastic shifts in appearance, or any signs of fear around their partner. “Be mindful of someone who’s constantly criticizing what you wear or is overly jealous. Those are red flags,” she urged, also warning against quick romances that move too fast.
Connecting with Resources
For those affected by intimate partner violence, seeking help is crucial. SOLE Recovery maintains a presence on social media, providing information and resources for those in need. Interested individuals can reach out to their Facebook page or contact Tina Thornton directly via email.
Final Thoughts
As Birmingham strives to raise awareness and combat domestic violence, the stories and services provided by organizations like SOLE Recovery highlight a vital movement in our community. By supporting survivors and educating local residents, we can work towards a safer and more empowered atmosphere for all.
