Sin by Silence Review: A Film About Domestic Violence by Convicted Women

Sin by Silence is a documentary that tracks the history and message of Brenda Clubine and the CWAA (Convicted Women Against Abuse. These survivors were convicted of murdering their husbands after enduring domestic violence. Most of these women were convicted before battered women's syndrome could be admitted as evidence in their cases. Sin by Silence challenges us to realize through survivor convict testimony that this could happen to anyone, survivors are not alone, and that we can move forward.

CWAA was formed by Brenda Clubine to help fellow survivor convicts to understand themselves, their cases, and how the domestic violence could have escalated to the level it had. That they weren't alone in domestic violence was a major breakthrough for several members. Convicted Women Against Abuse grew and the survivors gained a better understanding of what happened in their relationships. They started wishing that they would have known then what they know now. The CWAA then wrote to the governor of California explaining their situation, that they were offenders but they were also survivors. Because of this group, laws have been changed to allow individuals convicted prior to 1992 to have their files reopened to take domestic violence into account. Under this law Brenda Clubine was released in 2008.

Sin by Silence is a film allowing us to learn about domestic violence from the experts (those who have survived and those who have spent a lot of time working with survivors). Some of these convicted women are still behind bars. They want their loss to not be in vain. Silence is a major factor in domestic violence and abuse. Talking about it, telling someone, can put the survivor at greater risk. Many survivors are so controlled and removed from other people that they don't even know who they would talk to. As one survivor convict put it, "Silence is a killer." Through this film, these women are breaking the silence. They have the experience to talk about domestic violence in a real and representative way. They are also able to be bolder from a place of relative safety being not in an abusive relationship now. Educate yourself and your friends about the real situation, about the struggles, fear, and next steps from domestic violence.

Sin by Silence is not rated, but may be unsuitable for younger viewers. Some parts of the film are intense and some photos and discussion may be too graphic for children. I recommend Sin by Silence to people high school aged and above. Sin by Silence could also be useful for students of younger ages who are survivors of domestic violence themselves provided there is the proper support system in place.

Currently Sin by Silence is on tour. Brenda Clubine is showing the film, engaging the audience in discussion, and providing ways that concerned citizens can help. It is the best way to see the film. Check the tour schedule and see if you or a friend can see it live.

Remember

Domestic violence and other abuse happens when nobody is watching.

It is important that we educate ourselves about the issues related to domestic violence. There are many forms abuse and domestic violence can take. Whether you or a friend is in need of help, getting resources and information about how to escape domestic violence and what to do afterward is critical.