Rebecca McWilliams updates Birmingham leaders on domestic violence response strategies

The Birmingham City Council convened on July 8, 2025, to address pressing issues surrounding domestic violence in Jefferson County, with a significant presentation from Rebecca McWilliams, Executive Director of the 1 Place Metro Alabama Family Justice Center. The meeting began with a suspension of rules to allow McWilliams to present an update on the state of domestic violence in the area and the role of her organization in combating this public health crisis.

McWilliams emphasized the critical nature of domestic violence, noting that it affects many individuals in the community, either directly or indirectly. She highlighted the importance of changing the narrative around domestic violence, particularly the misconception that victims should simply "leave" their abusers. Instead, she advocated for the term "escape," stressing that leaving can often be the most dangerous time for victims.

The presentation included alarming statistics, revealing that Jefferson County experiences between 12,000 to 14,000 domestic violence-related calls annually. McWilliams reported a significant increase in petitions for protection from abuse orders, indicating a growing awareness and willingness among victims to seek help. However, she cautioned that this could also reflect an uptick in violence.

McWilliams shared that the Birmingham Police Department is a vital partner in their efforts, often transporting victims to the center for support. She noted that the presence of family justice centers correlates with a decline in domestic violence homicides, citing a decrease from 40 to 28 homicides in the past year in Jefferson County.

The discussion also touched on the need for a coordinated community response to domestic violence, involving law enforcement, courts, and various agencies. Council members expressed their support for initiatives aimed at holding offenders accountable and providing better resources for both victims and perpetrators. They discussed the importance of addressing root causes of violence, including childhood exposure to violence and the need for restorative justice programs.

Councilor Clark and others raised concerns about the challenges of prosecuting strangulation cases, which often lead to severe outcomes. They emphasized the need for better training for first responders and a citywide protocol for handling such cases.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from council members to support ongoing efforts to address domestic violence in the community, recognizing the importance of collaboration among various stakeholders to create effective solutions. McWilliams reiterated the need for continued advocacy and support for victims, as well as for programs aimed at preventing future violence.