October was Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and last week saw a workshop on relationship violence in Alaska developed by the Women's Center and, in conjunction with the Office of Multicultural Affairs, an open house invitation for anyone interested in visiting and exploring the women's center, their purpose, staff, volunteers and other folks like themselves.

"There are many, many resources available to students at UAF," said Anne-Marie Poole, director of the Women's Center.

Kate Axelarris, director of community services for the Interior Alaska Center for Non-Violent Living, introduced the workshop in a presentation on the dynamic and often unrecognizable types of relationship violence than are sometimes blatant and sometimes extremely subtle. Axelarris emphasized the importance of noticing signs when a batterer is trying to exert power or control over the victim. These can be multiple and varied she said, from emotional abuse operated through constant daily putdowns, economic threats, manipulative control over children involved, to simply intimidating stares in a busy room.

Axelarris went on to stress that when the victim shows signs of independence these are often quickly squashed, as this might take control away from the batterer. One such area is if the victim may get a job, the batterer may be quick to intrude, "It's hard to go in on your fist day with a black eye," Axelarris said as an example. Central to the workshop was the ability in noticing early signs, which is vital in preventing abuse from going any further. She highlighted that victims often relate how, after a severe beating, they recall how six months previous it had started with a scratch.

The center has played a large part in not only educating the community on relationships and violence but also generating knowledge in assessing the roots of the problem. Axelarris related how "elementary school education and the media play a massive part in the ongoing projection of stereotypical gender roles." When asking young boys what are the essential qualities of a man, she said they often reply, "to be strong and in control," and when asked whether men should cry, a consensual "no!" Axelarris said girls are taught that a good woman should be passive and polite. And yes, crying was permissible.

The talk was then localized to statistics of domestic violence in Fairbanks of which there are many reported cases. Axelarris informed the audience that approximately half of all reported cases are put up for hearing, and only a quarter of those heard are ever convicted. Whether these statistics are indicative of reality or an example of an inept judicial system should be open for investigation, acknowledged Axelarris.

In collaboration with the campus police, there are programs of support on campus for people who have protective orders. Couples with a violent history can be based at opposite ends of campus. Every Tuesday from 5 to 8 p.m. there are staff-trained volunteers, providing a friendly and confidential ear for any worries or advice. Poole emphasized that anyone, regardless of gender should not hesitate to get in contact as the center has extensive referral services from legal issues to counseling services.

"We should be used as first base for everything," Poole smiled.

Other community projects include a highly popular benefit gift-wrapping party. The UAF community has for many years throughout the fall semester brought presents for affected women and children who reside in the Fairbanks shelter, culminating in a big party to wrap up the presents (date to be announced). They are also looking for a teacher to discuss male attitudes with a diverse range of relationship issues, as well as a teacher for female empowerment training and self-defense classes.

"If anyone has the skills, for free, or would like to volunteer in the expanding center support team, please get in touch!" Poole said cheerfully as the open house was coming to a close and the last food was being plucked from the plate. The Women's Center is in the Eielson Building, room 107B, office hours 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Call 474-6360 or e-mail fywoc@uaf.edu.