A Presbyterian-supported documentary about faith-based responses to domestic violence has been nominated for two Emmy awards.
“I Believe You: Faiths’ Response to Intimate Partner Violence,” which aired on ABC affiliates across the country in 2011, is nominated for Best Religious Programming and Best Editing Emmys. The interfaith documentary was partially funded by Presbyterian Women, the presbyteries of Detroit and Maumee Valley and Presbyterians Against Domestic Violence, as well as the National Council of Churches and other faith groups.
The one-hour documentary highlights the ways that faith groups support healing and advocate on issues surrounding domestic violence. The film’s creators say although an estimated 1.3 million women in the United States are victims of intimate partner abuse each year, only 12 percent turn to clergy for support.
“For women of faith, the specter of intimate partner violence has been a double-edged sword, since historically, their faith, normally a source of comfort, has . . . told women they must not break their marriage vows. [T]oday, faith groups have begun to listen,” reads the film’s synopsis.
“I Believe You” was written and produced by Debra Gonsher Vinik and directed and edited by David Vinik. This is Debra Gonsher Vinik’s eighth Emmy award nomination and David Vinik’s second nomination. They have won three times. The documentary was created by Diva Communications.
For more information on the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)’s response to domestic violence, read “Turning Mourning into Dancing!”, a policy statement from the 213th General Assembly, or visit Presbyterians Against Domestic Violence’s website.