Bill of Rights for Abused Women

I have the right not to be abused.
I have the right to anger over past abuse.
I have the right to change the situation.
I have the right to freedom from fear of abuse.
I have the right to request and expect assistance from police or social agencies.
I have the right to share my feelings and not be isolated from others.
I have the right to want a better role model of communication for my children.
I have the right to be treated like an adult.
I have the right to leave the abusive environment.
I have the right to privacy.
I have the right to express my own thoughts and feelings.
I have the right to develop my individual talents and abilities.
I have the right to legally prosecute the abusing spouse.
I have the right not to be perfect.

Adapted from "Battered Wives and Powerlessness" by Patricia G. Ball and Elizabeth Wymen.