Beyond Crisis Response: It’s Time to Build a Movement That Matches the Magnitude of Gender-Based Violence
Co-authored by Lynn Rosenthal and Rosie Hidalgo (BWJP MOSAIC Initiative) and Kandice Louis Wilson (Centre for Public Impact) Every day,…
Why We Stayed Series
By Patrice Tillery and Veronica Thomas
This 3-part Survivor Story Series by Patrice Tillery and Veronica Thomas explores the complex reasons why survivors may stay in abusive relationships and what eventually gives them the strength to leave. The series aims to unveil the invisible barriers—emotional, financial, and psychological—that trap survivors, offering personal insights that challenge societal misconceptions. Through their candid stories, Patrice and Veronica shed light on the internal struggles that many survivors face and provide a voice to those who may feel isolated in their experiences. The series not only offers support to fellow survivors but also educates communities, fostering empathy and understanding around the realities of gender-based violence (GBV). Some identifying information has been redacted to protect the survivors' identities.
Part 1: Why We Stayed: Unveiling the Invisible Barriers to Escaping Abuse"
Veronica Thomas shares her personal journey in the first part of this series, highlighting the financial dependence, fear of losing her children, and unawareness of the different forms of abuse that kept her tied to her abusive partner. This chapter provides an intimate look at the psychological and emotional traps that prevent many survivors from leaving abusive relationships.
Part 2: Why We Stayed: The Struggle with Hope, Identity, and Courage
In the second installment, Patrice Tillery reflects on her battle with maintaining an ideal nuclear family and the hope that her partner might change. She opens up about the emotional loss of identity and the courage it took to finally choose herself and her children over the abusive relationship.
Part 3: Why We Left: The Breaking Point & Finding the Strength to Finally Leave
In the final part of the series, both Veronica and Patrice recount the pivotal moments and revelations that empowered them to leave their abusive relationships. They share the painful but necessary journey of rediscovering self-worth and rebuilding their lives outside the shadow of abuse.