Alternatives to Family Violence is a feminist organization—this is what feminism means to us:

We recognize that all oppressions are interrelated and are not tolerable. Oppressions stem from a system of power that has defined the “right” or “normal” way to be. This system of power has created a society where people are treated differently because of their actual or perceived race, ethnicity, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, ability, and age. Violence, through words and actions, is used to gain power and control. Thus, violence is used to maintain or to create oppression.

We acknowledge our own privileges and prejudices and confront them. In order to provide the best services to our clientele, we try to view issues from the client’s point of view, not from our own. The goal is to maintain an environment that is accessible to everyone, not to alienate clients by expecting them to make the same choices that we would make—our clients are the experts about their respective situations.

We work to create an environment that is empowering for clients as well as staff. Empowerment is not about rescuing or telling; it is about creating a space for a person’s talents and ideas to flourish so that they can gain strength and wisdom.

We are committed to living non-violent lifestyles and to helping others do the same.