DomesticShelters.org Editorial Policy

DomesticShelters.org prioritizes the safety of domestic violence survivors.

To help ensure the safety of both the domestic violence survivors who disclose to us and our staff, we do not contact known abusers. Because of this policy, DomesticShelters.org does not publish identifying details of abusers, except when a survivor’s claims have been verified by official documentation such as police reports or arrest records. For their safety, survivor’s names and other identifying details may be concealed upon the survivor’s request. DomesticShelters.org will not disclose the names or details of survivors who wish to remain anonymous.  

Domestic violence survivors’ words are their own.

DomesticShelters.org does not editorialize domestic violence survivors' experiences. DomesticShelters.org offers a space for survivors to relate their experiences authentically, including using the language and labels they prefer. Content published as “Your Voice” serves as OpEd material and may not represent the views of DomesticShelters.org.
If a survivor would no longer like to share their story for any reason, at any point, DomesticShelters.org will remove the material without question upon request.

DomesticShelters.org strives for inclusive and accountable language throughout our content.

DomesticShelters.org believes in reaching and including as many people as possible. One way we do this is a commitment to always using inclusive language as to not exclude marginalized groups. DomesticShelters.org also believes in abuser accountability. For this reason, we avoid terms such as “your abuser” or “abusive relationship” which place blame or possession on the victim.

All DomesticShelters.org content is reviewed by a professional Expert Advisory Group.

DomesticShelters.org’s Expert Advisory Group is composed of experts with decades of experience in the field of domestic violence. All content created by DomesticShelters.org is reviewed by the Expert Advisory Group before publication to ensure accuracy and authenticity, as well as to provide professional insights to improve our content. Learn more about our Expert Advisory Group.

DomesticShelters.org uses only credible sources and strives to use the latest and most comprehensive data.

In order to quantify and define domestic violence and abuse, DomesticShelters.org uses only credible sources such as established advocacy organizations, government agencies, published authors, licensed medical professionals and domestic violence professionals such as shelter executives or trained advocates. Our sources are always cited and, when possible, we cite the original source of any data. However, it’s important to note that domestic violence is widely recognized as an underreported issue. This means it’s impossible to know with complete accuracy the entire scope of domestic violence and related issues. 

DomesticShelters.org acknowledges that domestic violence does not discriminate based on gender or gender identity, race, sexual identity, age, socioeconomic status, education level, location, religion or background.

DomesticShelters.org understands that domestic violence is an issue that affects all demographics and groups. We strive to include all people in our content with cultural sensitivity and awareness. As part of this acknowledgment, we avoid using gendered pronouns when referring to survivors, except in cases about specific individuals who have stated their preferred pronouns. 

DomesticShelters.org is always open to discussion and feedback from domestic violence survivors, professionals and supporters.

DomesticShelters.org supports believing survivors and using our platform to elevate survivor and advocate voices. If you have any comments, insights, feedback or opinions on any of our content, please contact info@domesticshelters.org.

DomesticShelters.org will not respond to hate speech, threats or inflammatory remarks.

DomesticShelters.org  publishes sponsored (paid) content from verified organizations.

As part of a 501(c)3 non-profit charity, DomesticShelters.org occasionally publishes content paid for by outside organizations as a method of fundraising. The DomesticShelters.org staff works closely with sponsors to create content that is valuable and important in relation to domestic violence. All sponsored content is reviewed by our Expert Advisory Group. DomesticShelters.org only accepts sponsorships from vetted organizations with commitments to helping fight domestic violence and supporting survivors. While DomesticShelters.org may receive financial contributions from products purchased, any products or services referenced have been reviewed and approved of by DomesticShelters.org staff members.