2020 was an unprecedented year like no other. Like countless other organizations, the New York State Coalition Against Domestic Violence pivoted to focus our efforts on supporting domestic violence programs across New York State in managing the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on service delivery, survivors, and staff. We continue to be inspired by the tireless commitment of domestic violence advocates providing essential services throughout New York State, ensuring that survivors have access to the support they need.
The issue of domestic violence came into the national spotlight during COVID-19, and advocacy programs in New York reported increases in requests for help, both in frequency and severity. According to the national Domestic Violence Counts Census coordinated by the National Network to End Domestic Violence (NNEDV), in 2020 New York was once again the state with the highest demand for domestic violence services in the country.
2020 also shined a spotlight on racism and oppression in the United States, illustrating an urgent need for racial and social justice reform. NYSCADV remains steadfast in our commitment and responsibility to change the systems that create and cultivate injustice, inequality, and violence in all forms, including domestic and gender-based violence.
Now, more than ever, our mission at NYSCADV remains clear and vital: to support the social change necessary to prevent and confront all forms of domestic violence.
