A hand gesture is proving vital for victims of domestic violence seeking discreet help. On August 19, 2023, in a convenience store in Alhambra, California, a woman was able to alert an onlooker to her situation without raising the suspicions of her alleged abuser, who was with her at the time. According to the local police department, the victim utilized a hand signal behind her back to communicate her need for assistance.
Police reported that the incident confirmed a domestic violence situation, emphasizing the effectiveness of non-verbal communication methods in distressing circumstances. While authorities did not disclose the exact gestures used, the “Signal for Help” has gained traction as a recognized method for victims to signal their need for support. This gesture was developed by the Canadian Women’s Foundation during the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic when reports indicated a surge in incidents of gender-based violence.
The foundation’s spokesperson noted that the signal emerged in response to increased risks for individuals confined within homes. Studies conducted by various organizations, including the United Nations, reported that factors such as financial strain and limited access to support services intensified during lockdowns, putting many at greater risk.
The Signal for Help is designed to be simple and discreet. It involves showing an open palm, then tucking the thumb inward and closing the fingers over it to “trap” the thumb. This gesture can be communicated silently from a distance, making it suitable for various situations, including video chats or through windows.
While understanding how to perform the signal is essential, knowing how to respond when witnessing it is equally important. The Canadian Women’s Foundation encourages individuals to act as “responders” by safely reaching out to the person in distress, which may involve contacting them through a private phone number or email. The foundation offers resources, including a guide and a mini-course, to educate potential responders on the appropriate actions to take.
Support for the Signal for Help has also come from various organizations, including the Women’s Funding Network and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. They advise that in cases where a victim appears to be in immediate danger, contacting law enforcement is crucial.
The signal has gained significant visibility on social media platforms, particularly TikTok, where tutorials explaining its meaning and application have garnered millions of views. This exposure has empowered viewers to utilize the knowledge gained to assist those in peril.
In a notable incident from 2021, a teenager who had been abducted successfully alerted a motorist to her situation using the Signal for Help while in her abductor’s vehicle. Officer Gilbert Acciardo of the Laurel County Sheriff’s Office in Kentucky later remarked on the gesture’s impact, stating, “This is probably the best thing I’ve seen come along in the 48 years I’ve been a patrol officer.”
For those affected by domestic violence, support is available through the National Domestic Violence Hotline. Individuals can reach out by calling 1-800-799-SAFE or by texting “START” to 88788. Online chat services are also offered for additional assistance.
