We Have A Problem
Domestic Violence is a community problem and a global pandemic. Here in the US, 1 in 4 women are victims of Domestic Violence, and 1 and 9 men are too. We struggle to put an end to this violence because it often happens in the privacy of our own homes, away from the eyes of others. We then carry our secret with us when we leave those four walls, often ashamed, embarrassed, or simply too damn afraid to speak up.
It’s Time To Speak Up
I know, this is a big ask. Especially if you’re not yet safe, or still susceptible to backlash. But it’s so important. Most of us don’t get justice, accountability, or even an apology from our abusers. Speaking up isn’t about that. It’s about setting fire to the stigma that often clings to victims and survivors. Speaking up slashes through the stereotypes about who can be victimized, and who does the abusing. But most importantly, it helps us find each other- because support is what we need right now. Leaving is only the beginning.
I was terrified the day I left my abusive marriage. TERRIFIED. My terror was tied to a couple things 1) I knew there wasn’t much waiting for me on the other side. The future was unknown- I didn't know what that level of disruption would do to me physically, emotionally, and mentally and how it would effect my performance on the track which was the only way I could make money. 2) I did not want people to know at first, because I was embarrassed that me as a so-called “strong woman” had been a victim. So many people believed in my strength and power that I didn’t think I would be believed. 3) I knew that every time and anytime I’d open my mouth I was opening myself up to backlash.
Don’t get me wrong. Those are valid reasons to want to remain silent, and to protect yourself. But in this case, silence for me represented betrayal and complicity. I had to remind myself daily that I had already survived the hardest thing. So the harassment, the lawsuits, the smear campaigns, and all the things that have come from me sharing my story are nothing compared to that.
And as it goes when we share our stories people reach out to us and share their own. That’s how I know we need each other. But that we need a safe space to show and give each other that support.
That’s why I’ve created a new organization and community called V2V, but first I need your help.
V2V is an acronym that stands for Victim 2 Victor and is an organization founded by me, Tianna Madison. The logo (seen below) is made up of two letter V’s and the purple ribbon used to represent domestic violence. Together these images create a silhouette that resembles a crown because as we move from “victim to victor” we need constant reminders of our inherent worth. Moving from Victim to Victor is the ultimate “fix your crown” journey.
Are You a Survivor?
Domestic violence, sexual violence, and other forms of abuse are a public health crisis. A quick google search will turn up a tremendous amount of literature, organizations, and services that attempt to address the unique stressors and concerns that victims and survivors have. But I had one question I couldn’t find a clear answer to: what now? After nearly four years I’m finally getting closer to experiencing that “whole” feeling- and although healing takes the time that it takes- I spent more time searching than actively healing. V2V is based on my own healing journey, the approach and methods I used to get back on my feet, and how I am able to stay standing when I get knocked down. But not all of our journeys and recoveries are the same and that’s why I need your help.
If you are a survivor of abuse of ANY kind please consider joining my V2V Advisory Council. This council will serve as the sounding board for the direction of V2V. Participation in the Council is FREE. Each member of the council will test drive all programming first and have the opportunity to provide feedback before making the program available to the larger community. Each council member will have the opportunity to pitch their own ideas for services, grants, and other offerings to incorporate into V2V’s mission. Council members will also be the first users of the V2V private app, and will have verified badges so that all V2V members are aware of your status.
This council will not make public its membership, our communications are private, and our meetings (quarterly and virtual) are only open to fellow members and will be passcode protected.
Our first meeting will be in February of 2022. That’s enough time for you to think this over, to think about how or if you want to be involved in this mission, and to complete the application (and for us to review it) I’m looking for 15-20 women to make up the council. Could be more, could be less but that’s the target.
If you are a survivor- but you aren’t yet ready to step into a mentorship/leadership role but are interested in being a part of this community. Start by joining our mailing list. You’ll be the first to know when the doors to V2V officially open and to learn more about the app and how to get an invite to our “gated community,” and how you can get started on your healing journey.
What Would You Like To Do?
Why Is There An Application Process???
There’s an application process because we need to know who we are inviting into this "SAFE SPACE.” Unfortunately, it is still dangerous for some of us to speak up and out. We are doing our best to protect ourselves and each other by having potential council members “apply.” Don’t let the application intimidate you from joining. We want to accept any one who takes this brave step to apply. However, reasons you might be denied membership to the council include but are not limited to some of the following reasons:
incomplete/missing information on application
we can’t confirm your identity
you identify as male (this particular group is not for you)
we have too many applicants (if that’s the case we’d bring you in later)
V2V Advisory Council
V2V is survivor founded, and survivor led. Which means this organizations needs our voices to help us better serve, support, and empower women who have survived the abuse crisis. If you are interested in joining this council and adding your voice to the recovery conversation please complete the application below. Our FIRST Advisory Council Meeting is set for: Feb 20th, 2022 05:30 PM Pacific Time (US and Canada).
***hEADS UP!! Missions like this tend to attract trolls, bots, and naysayers. For this reason we are taking extra measures (like this application process) to make sure V2V remains a safe space. Meetings will not be shared after. Notes will be taken during each session and made available to download if desired. Authentication is required to join the virtual meetings. Our goal with V2V is to live well, and heal fully. We will be diligent in reporting harassment, intimidation, cyberbullying, and cyberstalking to the appropriate authorities.***
