Helpline for Domestic Violence in the Muslim Community

April 13, 2003

Source: The Mecury Sun

http://www.bayarea.com/mld/mercurynews/news/local/5624219.htm

On April 13, 2003 The Mecury Sun reported that "in response to an increase in calls from Muslim women to Bay Area battered women's hotlines, the Islamic Society of North America is setting up the West Coast's first 'helpline' for domestic violence tailored to the Muslim community... The helpline, which starts Tuesday, is the Palo Alto organization's first step in creating an outlet for Bay Area Muslim women who are suffering in silence. A fundraising drive is also under way to establish a shelter for women who leave abusive men... 'For a long time, the Muslim community has not wanted to recognize this,' said [Manzoor] Ghori, who... serves as director of the Islamic Society of North America. 'We need to talk about it, and we need to be pro-active to help resolve problems before they escalate into desperate situations.'"