YWCA Union County Statement on Yasemin Uyar

• by YWCA Union County
• July 13, 2021

The YWCA Union County was shocked and horrified by the murder of Yasemin Uyar, a resident of Rahway. While the details of the case are still unfolding, Ms. Uyar was clearly a victim of domestic violence over several years. Like many cases of domestic violence, the abuse escalated over time, resulting in a horrific outcome.

Her case demonstrates that domestic violence can become lethal and that cases where strangulation has occurred in the past have an increased risk of homicide. Our thoughts are with her family and young son, Sebastian.

The most dangerous time for a victim is when she leaves her abuser. Victims face many barriers when leaving an abusive relationship. They may face very real threats from their abuser and may not have the financial ability to leave. Indeed, financial abuse almost always accompanies physical abuse.

Abuse is about power and control. It is a pattern of behavior that includes physical, financial, sexual, emotional, and psychological abuse. We must ensure that the legal system holds abusers accountable and understands the dynamics of domestic violence.

Yasemin was actively trying to stay safe and understood the danger she was in. This case illustrates the need for more collaboration across systems to ensure all parties understand the level of risk victims face, and to inform responses that support victims’ safety.

Sadly, Yasemin’s situation is not unique. The YWCA staff serves hundreds of victims each year in court and hears stories like hers far too often.

Domestic violence impacts one in three women and one in five men. It is an epidemic in this country. Three women each day are killed by their abuser in the US. Many victims are unaware of the services and resources available to them.

The YWCA Union County is committed to helping all victims who reach out to us and to help them safety plan and find the resources they need. Our services include shelter, long-term housing, counseling, legal and court advocacy. All our services can be reach at our 24-hour hotline at (908) 355-3457 (HELP). The hotline is answered in both English and Spanish.

For more information, visit the YWCA Union County website at www.ywcaunioncounty.org or call our 24-hour hotline at (908) 355-3457, or the NJ statewide hotline at (800) 572-7233 (SAFE).

For media inquiries, you can reach us at info@ywcaunioncounty.org.