Women's History Month Recap

Domestic Violence in Westchester and Law Enforcement
Domestic violence, one of the most serious, yet silenced issues in Westchester County, was brought to the surface and exposed by Diane Murphy, victim and survivor.

In honor of Women's History month, Diane addressed a room full of Iona students in the Robert V. LaPenta Student Union, End Zone on Thursday, March 4, about domestic violence in Westchester, particularly in police families.

For ten long years, Diane endured the pain of being married to an abusive police officer in Westchester County. Like any other woman in that position, she was afraid and felt reluctant to report the issue. Eventually overcoming the fear of suffering at the hands of her husband, she finally built up the courage to leave him. Since, Diane has made a vow to expose and bring awareness to domestic violence in law enforcement relationships. Over the years, she has succeeded in being an activist through her position as a Program Specialist for the Office for Women in Westchester County.

To emphasize the seriousness of domestic violence, Diane showed a short film created by the NYPD titled "Final Warning." The film revealed scenarios of both men and women in abusive relationships who struggle with isolation, restriction of freedom, assault and violence.

"Some cops are incredible, brave human beings, but there are some exceptions," said Diane. Perhaps no one could relate better then her about those exceptions, which she says occurs when cops "abuse authority and power."

Fortunately, the Lautenberg Amendment has enhanced hope for victims and children in a domestic violent household. This law, which was enacted on September 30, 1996, codified at 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(9) prohibits those who have been convicted of domestic violence misdemeanors from buying or possessing firearms. The Lautenberg law is especially significant for police officers because it prohibits them from carrying firearms while on duty.

Diane also discussed warning signs that conclude a person is involved in a domestic violent relationship:

• Punching holes in the wall
• Isolating you from friends and family
• Past violence in prior relationships
• Abusive with step-children/children
• Abusive to animals
• Self absolution by the way of religion
• Body building obsession to prove strength

Police officer involved domestic violence also includes:

• Excessive force with prisoners
• Constantly cleaning weapons in full sight

Diane, as well as other law enforcement agencies, has worked aggressively to prevent domestic violence in Westchester County. Her work includes compiling yearly Domestic Incident Reports for Westchester, training police departments about domestic violence issues, and speaking to various schools about "Police Officer Involved Domestic Violence".

Diane Murphy has not only managed to survive being a victim in an abusive household, but has become an advocate for both men and women who want to stop the cycle of domestic violence in there household for good. For further information about domestic violence in Westchester County contact the Office for Women's helpline at (914) 995-5972.

Women's History Month Remaining Events:

Student's Scholars Conference
Tuesday, March 23, 11:00 am - Faculty Reception Room, Spellman Hall

Edmund Rice and Teresa of Avila
Tuesday, March 23, 4:30 pm - Blessed Edmund Rice Chapel

Production of Third by Wendy Wasserstein with post performance discussion
Wednesday, March 24, 7:00 pm - Romita Auditorium, Ryan Library

Faculty Panel: "The 'F' Word - How Feminism Affects My Discipline & Teachings"
Thursday, March 25, noon - End Zone, Robert V. LaPenta Student Union

Production of Third by Wendy Wasserstein with post performance discussion
Thursday, March 25, 7:00 pm - End Zone, Robert V. LaPenta Student Union

Vicci Martinez Live Performance (Outstanding Folk / Country Song 2009)
Wednesday, March 31, 9:30 pm - End Zone, Robert V. LaPenta Student Union


- Reported by Junior Nicole Williams, Spring 2010 Public Relations Student Worker and a student in Writing for Public Relations (Natalie Redcross, PhD).