https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I9dBdomJyQc&t=465s

As a survivor of family violence, I am deeply committed to seeking justice for all individuals who have suffered from this heinous crime. It is with great urgency that I bring forth this petition to advocate for the inclusion of scapegoating and family violence within domestic violence laws.

Personal Story:

I, the creator of this petition, have experienced firsthand the devastating effects of being the family scapegoat. My own family subjected me to egregious physical, sexual, and psychological abuse. They committed unspeakable crimes against me while convincing me that I was inherently unworthy of any better treatment. This manipulation justified their abuse in their eyes, leaving me traumatized and without recourse because its my parents or family society can refuse to understand that the very people who you should never have to be afraid of are the cruelest people you know.

To make matters worse, my abusers have never faced consequences for their actions. They refuse to take accountability or even offer an apology for watching me suffer without care or concern. Their satisfaction at my pain is a testament to their lack of empathy and moral compass.

Reasons for Inclusion:

1) Scapegoating as a Form of Abuse: Scapegoating is a form of emotional & psychological abuse where one individual within a family unit is unfairly targeted as the cause of all problems or conflicts within the household, often times survivors have also endured others forms of egregious or heinous abuse (physical, sexual, fiscal) and are blamed for these abuses while the offender is excused or not held accountable.

This type of abuse can lead to severe psychological, physical and neurological trauma and long-lasting emotional scars that for many last a lifetime. 

2) Impact on Victims: Victims who are scapegoated often experience feelings of isolation, shame, guilt, low self-esteem, anxiety disorders, depression, and even suicidal thoughts.

The lasting effects can hinder their ability to form healthy relationships or have any normalcy in their lives.

3) Prevalence: While statistics specifically addressing scapegoating are limited due to its covert nature within families, research shows that approximately 1 in 4 women and 1 in 7 men experience severe physical violence by an intimate partner during their lifetime (source: National Coalition Against Domestic Violence).

4) Legal Protection: By including scapegoating and family violence within domestic violence laws, we can ensure that victims receive the legal protection they desperately need. This will enable law enforcement agencies, shelters, and support organizations to better address the unique challenges faced by survivors of scapegoating.

Conclusion:

It is time for our legal system to recognize the grave injustice faced by victims of scapegoating and family violence. By signing this petition, you are joining me in demanding that lawmakers take immediate action to include these forms of abuse within domestic violence laws.

Together, we can provide a voice for those who have suffered in silence and work towards a society where no one is subjected to such cruelty and others will openly support victims and survivors.

This petition was inspired by a member in our private support group on Facebook who is currently living in her car with her 7 year old and can't find help in Florida because she is told that family are not considered intimate partners, which is another grave injustice that forces many survivors back to their abusive circumstances, she is one of many who needs this change to become effective ASAP.

Let us stand united against all forms of abuse & fight for justice on behalf of family violence  & scapegoated survivors everywhere.