Beyond the Headlines: Changing the Narrative Around Sexual and Domestic Violence

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When stories of sexual and domestic violence appear in our news feeds, they often focus on the perpetrator, the crime, or the legal consequences. These headlines, while necessary for public awareness, can inadvertently reinforce feelings of isolation among survivors and fail to highlight the pathways to healing and prevention that exist in our community.

At The Compass Center, we believe in changing this narrative—shifting the focus from sensationalized crime reporting to survivor support, community responsibility, and prevention.

The Impact of Headlines on Survivors

For survivors of sexual and domestic violence, seeing headlines about assault cases can trigger complex emotions. Some may find validation in seeing accountability, while others might experience heightened anxiety, flashbacks, or feelings of vulnerability. What headlines rarely convey is that healing is possible, support is available, and communities are working tirelessly to prevent future harm.

When we read headlines about sexual assault or domestic violence incidents, these stories represent real trauma experienced by real people. Behind each headline is someone navigating their own healing journey—often silently and sometimes alone.

The impact can be especially profound for those still in abusive situations, who may question whether their experiences “count” or whether they deserve support if their story doesn’t mirror what they see in the news.

You Are Not Alone

If you’ve experienced sexual or domestic violence, please know: You are not alone. Your experience is valid. The abuse was not your fault. And importantly, support exists specifically for you.

In South Dakota, The Compass Center and partner organizations offer:

• 24/7 crisis response through our hotline: 1-877-IN-CRISIS
• Trauma-informed therapy with specialists in recovery from relational violence
• Safety planning and risk assessment
• Emergency shelter connections
• Advocacy support for navigating medical, legal, and social systems
• Case management for rebuilding independence
• Supportive community of others who understand

Every person’s healing journey looks different. Some seek support immediately; others may wait months or years. Many in domestic violence situations reach out multiple times before they’re able to safely leave. There is no “right way” to heal, and it’s never too late to reach out.

Prevention Is Possible

While supporting survivors is essential, we must simultaneously work toward prevention. Sexual and domestic violence aren’t inevitable—they’re preventable through education, cultural change, and community accountability.

Prevention looks like:

• Healthy relationship education for young people
• Teaching early warning signs of abusive behavior
• Bystander intervention training for communities
• Challenging harmful cultural norms around gender, power, and control
• Creating trauma-informed systems across healthcare, education, and criminal justice
• Supporting economic independence programs that reduce vulnerability
• Addressing intersecting factors like substance use and intergenerational trauma

Changing the Narrative Together

As a community, we can shift how we talk about relational violence:

1. Center survivors’ experiences rather than focusing exclusively on perpetrators
2. Highlight available resources whenever discussing violence
3. Talk about prevention as a community responsibility
4. Use trauma-informed language that avoids judgment or sensationalism
5. Share stories of healing and resilience alongside reports of violence
6. Recognize the complexity of leaving abusive situations
7. Acknowledge the intersections of different forms of violence

Taking Action

Everyone has a role in changing the narrative around sexual and domestic violence:

• Support survivors by believing them and connecting them with resources
• Volunteer with organizations like The Compass Center
• Attend prevention trainings and share what you learn
• Donate to sustain vital support services
• Advocate for policies that protect survivors and prevent violence
• Model healthy relationships in your own life
• Speak up when you witness concerning behaviors

When headlines about violence appear in your feed, remember that they tell only part of the story. The complete narrative includes the strength of survivors, the dedication of advocates, and communities working together to create safety and healing.

Together, we can write a new headline—one that emphasizes support, healing, and prevention.

If you or someone you know has experienced sexual or domestic violence, support is available 24/7 through The Compass Center’s crisis line: 1-877-IN-CRISIS. All services are free and confidential.