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Public Spectacle is a grassroots organization that engages community members to talk about intimate partner violence. We do this by using various forms of performance art, such as poetry, songs, skits, plays and other interactive methods to help participants identify behaviors that can constitute intimate partner violence. As we work to create a climate of collective responsibility, we challenge individuals to reflect on their own attitudes and beliefs about domestic violence.

Public Spectacle uses the terms intimate partner violence (IPV), domestic violence (DV) and violence against women (VAW) interchangeably to discuss the use of power and control of one individual over another within an intimate relationship. Although men are also victims of domestic violence, between 80 and 90% of documented incidences of IPV constitute men’s violence against women. Shockingly, research indicates one in three women will experience violence from an intimate partner at some point in her lifetime. While we agree intimate partner violence does happen to men and is equally wrong, Public Spectacle takes the position that the rate of IPV against women is alarming and a distinct violation of our human rights as well as a major public health concern. Therefore, Public Spectacle’s objective is to promote and mobilize collective responsibility to end violence against women.