MIDLAND, Texas — One in seven men will experience domestic violence in their lifetime.
Midland Police Department reported that in 2023, one-third of the murder cases they investigated were related to domestic violence. There were also 1,457 cases reported last year.
During October, NewsWest 9 is bringing attention to this often-overlooked issue.
On Friday, the Midland Victim’s Coalition held its 9th Annual Walkathon for Domestic Violence Awareness.
Among the guest speakers was domestic violence survivor Alex "Lex" Archuleta, who had a powerful story to tell.
Lex described domestic violence as a nationwide epidemic, but emphasized there are ways to help those suffering in silence.
For many domestic violence survivors, the silence of abuse can be deafening.
Lex described his experience as numbing.
“You're trying to figure things out," Lex said. "Most victims think, ‘What did I do? What can I do to change it?’ because I felt like I was doing something wrong, and it's not like that all the time."
When Lex experienced his abuse, resources for men were scarce.
Even Safe Place, a 24-hour emergency shelter and advocacy organization, had no place for him to turn to.
“It wasn't a facility for men, so they had to turn me away," Lex said. "That was incredibly painful for me, and for them, because you're just lost, trying to find somebody."
Despite the stereotypes and misconceptions surrounding male victims, Lex refused to stay silent. He said, “it doesn’t go away. Silence is deadly—it could be deadly. Not speaking out just makes it worse. You need to say it out loud and find someone to hear it."
Though Lex has made progress in his healing, some wounds still linger.
“You know, it’s just shame. My children... *starts sobbing* You have to be honest with yourself that’s really important. You have to own it," Lex said. "I’m not saying own the act itself, but own the fact that it happened to you. Don’t live in denial or pretend everything is OK. You have to move forward and heal in a healthy way."
Lex’s story proves that domestic violence can happen to anyone, but you are never alone. There is a community in the Permian Basin ready to support you every step of the way.
If you or someone you know is struggling with domestic violence, Safe Place of the Permian Basin is one of many resources available to help. Their 24-hour hotline is 1-800-967-8928.