Break the Silence (BTS) exists to educate, empower, and mobilize Carolina students and surrounding communities to recognize, prevent, and respond to intimate partner violence, sexual assault, and unhealthy relationship dynamics. Through survivor-centered dialogue, evidence-based education, and accessible resources, BTS works to dismantle stigma, challenge harmful myths, and cultivate a campus and community culture grounded in safety, compassion, and accountability. Our mission is to interrupt cycles of generational trauma by equipping individuals with the knowledge, tools, and support needed to build and sustain healthy relationships.
Each month, Break the Silence focuses on a specific topic related to intimate partner violence and abuse and develops a presentation to share with our audience. We emphasize that violence is a learned behavior, and therefore it can be recognized, challenged, and unlearned to create a safer world for all. Globally, an estimated 137–140 women are killed each day by intimate partners or family members, underscoring the urgent need to destigmatize conversations about abusive relationships and make support more visible and accessible.
Break the Silence’s emphasis on accessibility, destigmatization, and youth-centered education makes it, and programs like it, essential for supporting youth and young adults. College-age individuals experience some of the highest rates of dating and domestic violence, yet there remains a significant gap in youth-led and youth-focused programs that openly address relationships and abuse. Reaching younger audiences can help prevent violence before patterns become entrenched, contributing to healthier mental and behavioral outcomes later in adulthood. BTS also works to train “safe adults” across professions so that educators, healthcare providers, mentors, and community leaders can recognize warning signs and respond appropriately.
Research indicates that many individuals experience psychological, physical, or sexual abuse before the age of 25, with women, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and other marginalized communities facing elevated risk. Break the Silence translates this research into clear, accessible information tailored for diverse audiences, helping communities better understand abuse and how to prevent it. Through this website, users can explore previously published BTS materials, including presentation slides from monthly discussions, interactive healthy-relationship quizzes for self-reflection, and pamphlets containing resources for those seeking immediate support. Together, these tools aim to foster awareness, empower individuals, and make our campus and surrounding communities safer for everyone.