An Australian campaign to raise awareness of domestic violence and sexual abuse has asked people to think about those who will get flowers as an apology rather than as a sign of love in the run up to Valentine’s Day.
The Sydney-based Full Stop Foundation raise funds for services that support those affected by sexual assault and domestic violence. The organisation’s CEO, Karen Willis, says the poem has emotional impact,
“The poem is very powerful so it creates that emotional response to a crime that is a highly emotive crime, but what it also does is show the progression that occurs within a domestic violence relationship.”
Social media users are being asked to interact with the campaign by using the hashtag #IGotFlowersToday and sharing the poem:
“It wasn’t my birthday or any other special day. We had our first argument last night. He said a lot of cruel things that really hurt me. I know he was sorry and didn’t mean the things he said. Because I got flowers today.
I got flowers today. It wasn’t our anniversary or any other special day. Last night, he threw me into a wall and started to choke me. It seemed like a nightmare. I couldn’t believe it was real. I woke up this morning sore and bruised all over. I know he must be sorry.
Because he sent me flowers today.
I got flowers today. It wasn’t Valentine’s Day or any other special day. Last night, he beat me up again. And it was much worse than all other times. If I leave him, what will I do? How will I take care of my kids? What about money? I’m afraid of him and scared to leave. But I know he must be sorry. Because he sent me flowers today.
I got flowers today. Today was a very special day. It was the day of my funeral. Last night he finally killed me.
He beat me to death.”
