Letters: What is making Chicago domestic violence survivors less safe

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. For organizations serving survivors of domestic violence, October is typically filled with activities to raise awareness and build support for services and prevention. We make domestic violence — and its victims — visible. Visibility shows survivors they are not alone and makes it easier to access help.

This October feels different. We are still wearing our purple ribbons and holding rallies and memorials, but the country is engaged in a debate about safety in Chicago that lacks nuance and bears little resemblance to most Chicagoans’ daily realities. Meanwhile, the federal government is deploying a “crime-fighting” strategy that makes survivors less safe — and the fear created by this federal occupation will likely cost lives.

Domestic abuse