Every October, communities across the nation recognize Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness, supporting survivors, and taking a stand against abuse. While many people know the term, fewer realize how deeply domestic violence affects people around them, including students.
For Joanna Bravo, the issue is deeply personal. She was in a relationship for a year and two months at first everything seemed normal. Ten months into the relationship the signs of mental and emotional abuse began to show. What started as a small comments and controlling behaviors became constant manipulation. After surviving an abusive relationship, she’s learned firsthand the importance of recognizing the signs and speaking up. Domestic violence awareness was the subject of her Miss Dinuba platform.
“After having to report and go through sessions with counselors, psychologists, and police, I realized what I went through wasn’t normal,” Bravo said. “When so many people told me I could have died, that’s when it clicked — relationships are supposed to be about respect, not control.”
Through her recovery, Bravo has gained a new understanding of what a healthy relationship should look like. “If you feel disrespected in the slightest, that’s not normal,” she said. “Abusers push your boundaries until you don’t have any left. Now, I’ve built self-respect and given myself grace for what I went through. I’m just grateful I got out and learned from it.”
Her message reflects what advocates emphasize during Domestic Violence Awareness Month: Abuse is never the victim’s fault, and
open conversations can save lives. National statistics reveal that one in four women, one in three teens, and one in seven men will experience domestic violence. Among LGBTQ+ individuals, nearly two-thirds report having been in abusive relationships.
“It’s such a taboo subject, but it happens so commonly,” Bravo said. “Pop culture makes it seem like jealousy and control mean that someone cares about you, but that’s not love — that’s manipulation.”
Bravo also encourages students to look out for their friends and approach the topic with empathy. “It’s not easy to just leave,” she explained. “You’re constantly being manipulated and pulled back in. The best thing you can do is listen without judgment and be patient.”
Domestic Violence Awareness Month serves as a reminder to educate, speak up, and support one another. Survivors like Bravo show that healing and strength are possible and that raising awareness can make a real difference.
“I’m not angry or sad anymore,” Bravo said. “I’m just grateful I got out — and that I can use my voice to help others know they’re not alone.”
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or visit thehotline.org for confidential, 24/7 support.
