October is almost here, and before Domestic Violence Awareness Month begins, I need to say this as plainly as I can: marriage does not give anyone permission to abuse you. If your husband is hitting you, threatening you, hurting you, or making you afraid, asking for help does not make you evil. Hearing people act like calling for help is some kind of betrayal is exactly why so many victims stay silent.

This does not just affect one woman in one home. When faith spaces fail to name abuse clearly, or worse, make survivors feel guilty for speaking up, people get trapped in fear. Too many victims are told to protect appearances, protect the marriage, protect the abuser's reputation, and keep suffering in silence. That silence can cost people their safety, their health, and their lives.

That is why I am calling on church leaders to require every church in their networks and communities to provide domestic violence safety resources clearly and publicly. Churches should share the National Domestic Violence Hotline, make it clear from the pulpit and in counseling that abuse is never acceptable, and direct victims to trained professionals and authorities when they are in danger. No one should leave a church service believing they have to endure violence to be a good wife.

If you believe survivors deserve truth, safety, and real support, please sign this petition. Let's make sure every person hearing messages about marriage also hears, loudly and clearly, that abuse is never their fault and help is available.