The Power of Imagery

by Nancy R. Koerner – Naples, FL
Copyright © 2008 – All Rights Reserved

Photographs were a significant subject at the recent NCADV 2008 Convention in Washington. Here is the contention. When we are shown photos of the skeletal children starving in Darfur, every rib sticking out, eyes bulging, stomachs distended, it tugs at the heart strings of the populous. We, the compassionate, weep for them, and the strength of our conviction helps to generate awareness, empowerment, and change. One of the drawbacks in our label as DV “victims” is that many of the influencers of would-be legal policy see us only when have transcended into "survivors.” They see us when we are free of blood and bruises, when we've had our counseling, when we're whole and strong again. So how do you feel about those photographs of yours? Do you have any? Have you ever thought of exposing them? Probably not. We are ashamed of them, right? They hold the stigma of "he-beat-me-so-it-must-be-my-own fault," and no one wants to relive those hideous events. And yet that is exactly what will make a difference. Domestic violence needs to be criminalized, and proven abusers should have their names and THEIR photos listed in the newspaper, the same as sex offenders. It may be difficult, but if we can create an environment wherein those abusers are brought to the forefront of the public eye and made to feel SHAME for their actions, this is when true change will begin.