Wisconsin Judicare's Civil Law Unit developed a specialized program for local beauticians and stylists. The project titled, "Washing Violence Out of Wisconsin" introduces attorneys and advocates in central Wisconsin to local hair professionals. These brief training seminars teach how to recognize signs of domestic violence, initiate a conversation about violence, and make appropriate referrals. Wisconsin Judicare has a history of providing comprehensive continuing legal education programs for civil law attorneys and agency members throughout Wisconsin.
In an effort to expand its audience, and after conversations with salon owners and managers, it was clear professionals were eager for an opportunity to be educated for "uncomfortable instances" when a customer appears abused. Hair professionals are in a unique position to inform their clientele while simultaneously providing a cosmetic service.
Beauty salons are normally a place where women lay back to have their scalps massaged and hair washed with warm water. Increasingly, women are discussing instances of abuse with her stylist during a session, seeking resources, or actively listening to suggestions when the stylist notices signs of abuse.
During the training program, stylists are advised of signs unique to domestic violence:
Bruises in different stages of healing, especially in less visible areas, such as the scalp
Spots indicating hair has been torn or pulled out
Frequent injuries, especially with unusual explanations
Self-blame or unrealistic guilt ("It's my fault, I shouldn't have made him mad.")
A partner always accompanying a client to appointments or waiting outside
Expressed fear of the partner, insecurity about his actions
A partner acting controlling or excessively jealous, dictating frequency of her salon visits, or prohibiting a change in her hair color or style
One sign does not prove abuse, however, a combination or pattern may indicate abuse. A stylist may feel she wished she knew where to send people or what to do when one of her clients is unsafe. This program helps to relieve some of that tension and unease.
The new project was created after studying efforts of other legal service agencies following the national "Cut it Out" initiative, a program dedicated to mobilizing salon professionals to fight domestic abuse in their local community. Through the program, hairstylists are educated about how to recognize victims of domestic violence and how to help. The program builds awareness through instruction, informational materials, as well as posters and brochures to be displayed in salons. "Washing Violence Out of Wisconsin" was developed in time for Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and plans to expand to reach students at the local beauty college and department store salons.
