Domestic violence is a significant public health issue in Minnesota. According to the National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey from 2016/2017, 39.6% of women and 35.8% of men in Minnesota experienced physical violence, rape, and/or stalking by an intimate partner in their lifetimes. Violence Free Minnesota also released their annual homicide report highlighting at least 24 community members who lost their lives in 2024 to relationship abuse in Minnesota. The report also discusses the devastating impact of every loss within a community and how it is felt across the community as a whole. 

The theme for Domestic Violence Awareness Month this year was With Survivors, Always, which calls to attention the importance of partnerships with survivors. Calls to action should always ensure survivor safety, support them at all stages in their healing journey, and stand in solidarity with them. Resources are available to support survivors, and it is imperative to remember that domestic violence, and intimate partner violence prevention is possible. 

• The Minnesota Day One Crisis Line helps survivors connect to advocates trained in domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking to find a shelter and services in their area. Advocates are available 24/7 via call, text, or chat:
  • Call: 1-866-233-1111
  • Text: 612-399-9995
  • Chat: visit Minnesota Day One Crisis Line and click “Chat Now” at the top left corner of the homepage
• The Minnesota Department of Health’s Sexual Violence Prevention Program created a Quick Facts about Sexual Violence and Intimate Partner Violence webpage. The Quick Facts highlights key findings from the 2022 Minnesota Student Survey as well as actionable steps people can take to respond to and prevent sexual violence in our communities.
• Futures without Violence (FUTURES) has worked for almost 40 years to provide programs, policies, and campaigns that empower individuals and organizations working to end violence against women and children around the world. For DVAM, FUTURES offers a comprehensive list of resources for advocates, professionals, parents, and more to help continue the work of ending domestic violence.  

First newsletter: Updates and action from the Missing and Murdered Relatives office 

The Office for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives is launching their new monthly newsletter. The newsletter will highlight resources, training and education opportunities, news, and much more, so make sure to sign up to receive their monthly newsletter and stay up to date.