By Zorina Barker, Forum Correspondent

“Why doesn’t she just leave?”

This is the question many ask upon realizing someone they know is in a physically abusive relationship.

As with most things in life, it just isn’t that simple. In virtually every case, fear characterizes domestic violence: fear of more violence, fear of being alone, fear of not being understood and fear of caring for children as a single parent.

The spotlight was turned on the local impacts of domestic violence last Friday, Oct. 11, with a special walk led by the Forks Abuse Program.

For many women, children, and even men in Forks, home is not a safe place to be. Because it is invisible to the outsider, domestic violence is extremely difficult to eradicate.

Yet Forks has an advantage over many cities and towns.

“Forks is a very caring community and that is just what we need to end domestic violence,” explained Ann Simpson, the director of the Forks Abuse Program.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month and to keep a spotlight on the problem, the Forks Abuse Program has events scheduled in the community each week.

On Friday, Oct. 4, courtesy clerks at Thriftway volunteered to put papers with information and statistics about domestic violence inside each bag of groceries enhancing public awareness.

Even more in the public’s view, was Friday’s walk.

Beginning at Tillicum Park, a group of mostly women and children walked to the Transit Center and back. Carrying colorful umbrellas and signs, their goal was to bring the issue of domestic violence outside and to main street.

“I want people to know it is a serious problem that goes on all of the time in daily lives,” Beverly Lee explained as she walked.

An employee of Forks Abuse, she has first-hand knowledge of the ugly side of some local homes and sees a need to reach out.

“Not enough people are aware that there is help. We want the victims to know they are not alone,” she said.

Walking with her two boys, Sarah Rowley said,” I would like families to live in peace. All of this violence makes me sad. This walk lets the community know there are families suffering all around us.”

This Friday, Oct. 18, the Forks Abuse Program is hosting an open house at its office from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Everyone is welcome to enjoy refreshments, ask questions and view the “Silent Witness” display.

On Thursday, Oct. 24, at the Hoh beachfront, once again the community is invited to join in the “Message in a Bottle” event.

The date has been set aside to remember victims and survivors of domestic violence and to begin an open discussion about healthy relationships.

The FBI recently reported that women between the ages of 15-44 are more likely to be injured by domestic violence than car accidents, muggings and rapes combined.

Those with questions are encouraged to call the Forks Abuse Program at 374-2273.