The Bethel City Council has passed an ordinance protecting renters who may be victims of domestic violence from losing their housing for making law enforcement calls. With all Council members in attendance, discussion lasted a little over half an hour, ending with the council voting to amend some of the language.
The Tundra Women’s Coalition spoke in support of the ordinance. TWC Lead Shelter Advocate Carol Ann Willard was there to explain it.
“If the ordinance, if it didn’t go through, it would more silence them [victims of domestic violence] and make the perpetrator have a bigger voice and empowers the perpetrator,” said Willard.
Willard said that many who are victims of domestic violence would be putting themselves at risk if they were seen coming to Council to show support for the ordinance. She said that's why it’s all the more important to have advocates like her be that voice in a public forum.
The amendment passed unanimously.