Gabby Petito’s Family Raises Awareness on Domestic Violence

In a poignant event marking Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Tara Petito and her stepmother Nichole Schmidt shared the story of their daughter and stepdaughter, Gabby Petito, with college students at Purdue University Northwest in Hammond, Indiana. The discussion focused on recognizing warning signs of domestic violence, a topic that resonates deeply in light of Gabby’s tragic death in September 2021.

Gabby Petito was murdered during a cross-country road trip with her fiancé, Brian Laundrie. Her remains were discovered in a national forest in Wyoming, following a search that attracted national attention. In the weeks prior, police had responded to reports of a domestic dispute between the couple but opted to separate them for the night rather than pursue charges. This decision highlights the complexities often involved in domestic violence situations.

Tara Petito emphasized the importance of public awareness, stating, “That’s why we keep talking about it because there are warning signs. There were some red flags that we were just unaware of.” Both she and Schmidt expressed a belief that Gabby’s story could serve as a crucial teaching tool for others, providing insight into the dynamics of abusive relationships.

During the event, Schmidt noted, “Believe survivors. Stop asking why they didn’t just leave.” This sentiment reflects a growing understanding that leaving an abusive relationship is often fraught with challenges, including emotional and psychological manipulation.

The FBI reports that domestic violence constitutes approximately 24% of nearly four million violent crimes in the United States. In Chicago, the rate is even higher at 26%. This statistic reinforces the urgent need for awareness and education.

A student in attendance, Alaya Edwards, shared her personal experience as a domestic violence survivor, noting that Gabby’s story helped her recognize the signs of abuse. “I was scared to open up because I didn’t know if I was in an abusive relationship or not,” Edwards explained. “They helped me understand the signs, even if it’s not physical violence.”

For Tara Petito, sharing Gabby’s story is not only about raising awareness but also about personal healing. “That’s why we do this; it’s also healing for us,” she said. The family’s initiative to speak at colleges across the country aims to empower young people to identify and address domestic violence, hoping to prevent future tragedies.

By shedding light on the complexities of domestic violence, Tara Petito and Nichole Schmidt are fostering a conversation that many find difficult to engage in. Their commitment to advocacy serves as a reminder of the profound impact of Gabby Petito’s life and the lessons that can be drawn from her story.