Domestic Violence Awareness Month and the Hudson Family Tragedy

Today, Jennifer Hudson confirmed that the body of a seven-year-old found in the back of a white sedan earlier this morning was indeed her nephew, Julian King.

So, in one horrible weekend, she lost her mother, her brother, and her nephew. Her sister, Julia Hudson, may have been in a domestic violence dispute with her estranged husband, William Balfour, who is presently in police custody.

As we mourn this tragedy, and as the newfound celebrity status of Jennifer Hudson helps to keep a spotlight on this unfolding horror, let us keep the family in our prayers while also taking the time to acknowledge that October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

I call attention to Professor Black Woman's commentary on the Cycle of Violence and how we, as women, and as a community, must be aware of the warning signs that might suggest that you too could be in a domestic violence situation.

This week, on Thursday, October 30, the second annual Document the Silence of Violence Against Women of Color will be held across campuses and in various communities nationwide. There are three things you are being asked to do:

1. Wear Red (i.e. ribbons, clothing, clown noses, etc.).
2. Read "Out of Silence" Litany at 8:00 pm/central time.
3. Take Pictures and/or video and email them to beboldbered@gmail.com.