6 Oct 2026
Domestic Violence Awareness: What You Need to Know
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and on this episode of Law Days & Lattes, Sidney welcomes Brianna Beckley, legal advocate and community outreach representative with Safe Passage Domestic and Sexual Violence Shelter and Crisis Intervention Center in Moberly.
Brianna has been with Safe Passage since 2023 and has served as the organization's legal advocate since November 2024. She works with survivors, provides community outreach and prevention education, helps with legal paperwork, and accompanies people to court.
In this important conversation, Sidney and Brianna talk about domestic violence, recent changes in Missouri law, the services Safe Passage provides, and why awareness and community involvement matter.
In This Episode
Domestic Violence Awareness Month and "Shine Purple"
Brianna explains Safe Passage's October "Shine Purple" campaign and why something as simple as seeing purple lights around the community can make survivors feel seen and supported.
Recent changes in Missouri law
The conversation covers several recent changes discussed by Safe Passage, including the ability for someone who is pregnant to obtain a divorce, restrictions on name changes for people on the sex offender registry, and protection orders for cyberstalking.
What Safe Passage does
Safe Passage provides much more than emergency shelter. Brianna discusses legal advocacy, court support, transportation, assistance with temporary lodging in certain circumstances, and other resources available to people experiencing domestic or sexual violence. Services are available to men as well as women and children.
A vital resource for North Central Missouri
Safe Passage serves nine counties in North Central Missouri and provides shelter for as many as approximately 30 people depending on the circumstances and available rooms.
Supporting Safe Passage
Brianna and Sidney discuss the importance of community support and Missouri tax credits available to people who donate to Safe Passage. The episode also mentions Safe Passage's 30th anniversary and an October 29 ribbon cutting.
Recognizing the signs of abuse
Sidney closes the episode by talking about how domestic violence isn't always physical. Intimidation, threats, financial control, emotional abuse, constant monitoring, jealousy, isolation, verbal degradation, and threats toward pets can all be signs of an abusive relationship.
A Community Issue
One of the most important messages from this conversation is that domestic violence is not simply a private family matter. It is a community issue.
As Brianna explains, the more conversations communities have about domestic violence, the more awareness they can create and the more opportunities there are to help prevent abuse and support survivors.
If something in this episode resonates with you or someone you know, consider sharing it. Sometimes awareness is the first step toward helping someone recognize what is happening and find support.
Need Help?
Safe Passage's 24/7 hotline is: 660-269-8111
Brianna emphasizes that people can call simply because they need someone to talk to. Safe Passage can help connect people with shelter, advocacy, transportation, legal support, and other resources depending on their circumstances.
Connect with the Show
Work with Us: Ready to gain ultimate clarity, organize your financial affairs, or protect your family's future? Contact the Wheelan Law Firm (wheelanlaw.com) to schedule a planning consultation. We proudly serve North Central Missouri businesses and families from our three convenient locations in Moberly, Carrollton, and Paris.
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Until next time, grab your favorite latte, hold your loved ones tight, and have a great week! ☕
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