Hey, did you know that today marks the start of the Dating Violence Awareness Week (DVAW)?

I didn’t. Until two days ago.

I received an invitation to attend the launch event by an NTU undergraduate named Carmen Lee, who seems to be the media rep for this campaign.

Unfortunately, I can’t go, but I want to support this worthy cause, so I’m shouting out about it.

Launch of Dating Violence Awareness Week
Date: Sat, Feb 7, 2009
Time: 1 pm to 6 pm
Venue: Tampiness Mall, Level 4 (Open Plaza)

Yeah, it’s happening right now.

There will be freebies, a jigsaw competition, Bodyshop makeovers, dance and band performances and other stuff. Check it out if you can drop by… at such short notice.

Dating violence happens when a partner uses force or pressure to abuse the other partner sexually, physically or psychologically in a dating relationship. The frequency and the severity of the abuse usually increase as the relationship continues.

Some startling facts in Singapore:

• From 1999 to 2004, 58 people were killed by their spouses, boyfriends or ex-lovers.
• A 2003 survey showed that 15 to 30 per cent of secondary and JC students polled have experienced family or dating violence.
• In 2004, it was reported that one in five university students had physically assaulted a dating partner over a year.

DVAW campaign video:

I hope DVAW will go a long way in helping address this social problem. Perhaps victims will not feel so alone and, hopefully, find the courage to leave their abusive partners because it’s just not right to allow another human being to physically abuse you for any reason.

There is a better person out there waiting for you!

If you believe that you might be a victim of dating violence but aren’t sure, read this to find out the warning signs.

Check out the official campaign website for more info.

Well, okay, let’s all support this cause and help make the world a better place!