Vaqueros Stand Up Against Domestic Violence

EDINBURG – UTRGV’S Office for Advocacy and Violence Prevention and University Police collaborated for Domestic Violence Awareness Month to host the Vaqueros Stand Up Against Domestic Violence on Oct. 22.

The event was held at the UTRGV Dining and Ballroom complex where different organizations and resources dedicated to the cause were offered.

According to the National Library of Medicine, it is estimated that there are 10 million cases of domestic violence every year in the U.S.

The same source states that one in every four women and one in every nine men have been victims of domestic violence.

Priscilla Palacios, OAVP associate director of Special Programs said the department offers confidential services.

“It allows them to reach out to someone and know who we are, so that way they are able to obtain those resources and maybe get that started, that process started,” Palacios said. “Should they need to, to talk to somebody about what they’re going through.”

She said the best advice she could give to those going through similar situations is by going to OAVP.

“We are able to provide you with information and resources on what to do, where to go, how to report, and how to understand the reporting process,” Palacios said.

Marco Huerta, University Police community engagement officer said the department has victim services, OAVP and the Title IX office which acts on behalf of the University as a neutral fact finder according to the non-discriminations and sexual misconduct policies, according to its website.

“So, we work, we take this very seriously,” Huerta said. “Anything having to do with any type of domestic violence, sexual assaults, anything like that the university takes that very seriously.”

Huerta gave his advice to anyone experiencing domestic violence and what can be done to handle the situation properly.

“I know it may be hard, but we want them to report it as soon as possible,” he said. “Either talking to a friend or family member or even just reporting it to law enforcement. Because it is very important, we need to handle this properly.”

You can find the available resources on the OAVP website or our website.