VIEWPOINT | Knowing your rights can be the difference between life and death

By Holly Wethor

Originally published at The Dakota Scout

March 5th, 2025

Many times, when someone is living in an abusive situation, it takes finding your rock bottom to find a way out. I should know, I am a survivor turned victim advocate.

February was Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, a time when it is paramount to ensure victims of crime know and can utilize their rights. By understanding the rights guaranteed to us in our Constitution, like Marsy’s Law, survivors can find solace and ensure their voices are heard. Too many friends, family, and neighbors of survivors lack the knowledge or the means to recover and feel safe again.

Even in the last four years, domestic violence increased in response to circumstances surrounding the Covid pandemic, according to a study with the National Institute of Health. Victims feel trapped and alone, with no way to escape and protect themselves. This is the case for teenagers who don’t yet have the life experiences or knowledge needed.