Many of us are focused people. Even if we can clearly see that something is happening, we stay in our lanes. Which is great, really, and a good way to hit your targets and live a peaceful life.
But every time we look away from abuse because “it’s not our business,” we become part of the violence. We see a friend’s black eye. We hear a neighbor crying at night. We know a child is not safe around a certain “relative.”
We whisper. We gossip. We make veiled comments.
Then when violence is shoved in our faces in public spaces. Ah, then we might act. We quickly whip out our phones, record, and share. As we continue on our way.
And the police have to wait until the violence hits their timeline, then plead for information to identify the players.
Minding our own business is great. But our silence keeps the perpetrator powerful. And keeps the victim trapped.
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Families protect abusive sons and daughters by pretending that it’s a happy marriage. Friends ignore warning signs. Colleagues avoid uncomfortable conversations and accept that one’s partner walks into doors regularly.
And so, the violence continues unchecked, because the abuser believes no one will stop them.
You may not be able to jump between fists. But you can report anonymously. You can call for help. You can speak up. Let the perpetrator know: Someone is watching. Someone will act. Someone will not be silent.
Just as it once took a village to raise a child, so will it take the whole society to stop GBV.
Let’s stop minding our own business.
Let’s start minding each other.
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