Domestic violence includes emotional abuse and physical, sexual, and psychological violence. According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, one in three women and one in four men have been victims of some type of physical violence by an intimate partner during their lifetimes. College students between the ages of 18-25 are among those with the highest risk of experiencing domestic and dating violence.

Throughout October, MHCC will host domestic violence awareness talks and provide resources to students, faculty, staff and community members. On Thursday, Oct. 12, from Noon to 1 p.m., in the Student Union (Room AC1051), Fawn Livingston-Gray, a volunteer coordinator with Call to Safety (formerly Portland Women’s Crisis Line) will discuss domestic violence within the community and how to prevent it.

On Wednesday, Oct. 18, from Noon to 1 p.m. in the Student Union, Saron Nehf of the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office, Victim Assistance Program, will lead a discussion on identifying and preventing domestic abuse and promoting healthy relationships. Also on Oct. 18, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in the Visual Arts Theatre (VA 22), MHCC Criminal Justice instructor and Oregon Representative Dr. Chris Gorsek will give a presentation on domestic violence from the perspective of a former law enforcement officer.

Lastly, on Wednesday, Oct. 25, from 3 to 4:30 p.m. in the Town and Gown (Room AC2000), staff from the Gateway Center in Portland will participate in a panel discussion on domestic violence services in Multnomah County.

All these events are free and open to the public.