Unfortunately, a large number of women endure silent suffering in their own families. We would want to believe that domestic abuse is not nearly as frequent in society as it once was, but even if rates are declining and it is getting less common—I’m not saying that’s the case, by the way—it is still too common to not be a major issue.
Victims of domestic violence frequently feel imprisoned in a terrible jail of circumstances. Many of them find ways to justify the physical, verbal, or emotional abuse they are receiving because they are afraid to ask for help and are unsure of what the future holds.
Because of this, a Facebook campaign that went viral a few years ago encouraged women who were victims of domestic abuse to get help by discreetly bringing attention to their predicament.
The idea, called the “Black Dot Campaign,” sought to raise awareness and identification of domestic violence victims by placing a little black dot on their palm, which would enable them to receive the support they require.
Stated differently, a person may be in a difficult circumstance if you notice a black dot written on their hand.
It goes without saying that the aforementioned Facebook page was incredibly popular. It was so well-liked, in fact, that it was shut down because of concerns that it would cause more harm than good. It’s possible that the “secret” significance of someone who has been abused writing a black dot on their hand is no longer so secret after reaching millions of people worldwide.
During its brief existence, the “Black Dot Campaign” assisted 49 women in leaving abusive relationships, according to an Independent story at the time. However, detractors contended that if offenders saw the symbol for what it was, it may worsen the circumstances for victims.
In 2015, the campaign’s anonymous creator told ITV News: “I was subjected to emotional, physical, and sexual abuse for five years. It’s the most isolating and frightening place to be.”
“I had many chances to ask for assistance, but I never did. I wish they could have started that conversation with me if I had put something on my body. The Black Dot concept originated there.
The campaign may be risky for certain women to participate in, according to Sandra Horley, the former CEO of the domestic abuse charity Refuge.
“We are worried that the Black Dot campaign has gained a lot of attention and notoriety, so it could be risky for some women to participate,” Ms. Horley stated.
“When women mark themselves with a black dot, they may unwittingly let their abusive partner know that they are attempting to get help.”
Even though the Facebook page has long since vanished, the idea is still relevant online, and it’s possible that some women are still painting black dots on their palms in an attempt to reach a helpful person.
Were you aware that this existed? I most definitely didn’t!