Debbie Dingell tells her story — even when she doesn’t want to

July 28, 2025

of "Rep. Debbie Dingell's Fight Against Domestic Violence" Representative Debbie Dingell shares her harrowing childhood experiences with domestic violence, including a traumatic incident where her father, who struggled with prescription drug addiction and mental illness, threatened the family with a gun. Despite her reluctance to discuss these painful memories, Dingell uses her platform in Congress to advocate for domestic violence survivors through legislative action and awareness campaigns.

Who is affected

Domestic violence survivors and their families
Children exposed to domestic violence who may face long-term trauma
Community-based organizations providing services to domestic violence survivors
Service providers in Detroit whose 85-bed shelter faces uncertain federal funding
Teachers and healthcare workers who need training to identify signs of abuse
Both women and men who are victims of domestic violence

What action is being taken

Dingell established the Bipartisan Working Group to End Domestic Violence in Congress
She authored provisions in the Violence Against Women Act to close gun access loopholes for domestic abusers and strengthen healthcare system responses
Dingell is sending letters to Trump administration officials urging them to reinstate funding for domestic violence programs
She is raising awareness about domestic violence through public speaking and sharing her personal story
Dingell is introducing bills aimed at protecting the domestic violence safety net
She is working with bipartisan groups to maintain resources for survivors

Why it matters

Domestic violence occurs across all socioeconomic backgrounds but is often stigmatized and hidden
Access to community resources is essential for helping survivors escape dangerous situations
Children in abusive homes face severe trauma that can affect them throughout their lives
The Trump administration's delays and restrictions on funding threaten critical support services
Raising awareness helps survivors recognize they're in dangerous situations and can seek help
Early intervention and community support can prevent tragedies like Dingell's sister's overdose
Combining gun access with unstable mental health creates particularly dangerous situations

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The 19th