Sarah Hyland on Why Spreading the Word About Domestic Violence Touches a Personal Nerve

As a seasoned movie reviewer who has seen countless stories unfold on the silver screen, I must say that Sarah Hyland‘s real-life journey off-camera is one of the most inspiring and heartrending tales I’ve encountered. Her resilience, courage, and unwavering commitment to raising awareness about domestic abuse and animal welfare are truly commendable.


Actress Sarah Hyland is consistently utilizing her fame to highlight two causes she deeply cares about – animal welfare and domestic abuse. On October 30th, EbMaster will recognize her efforts at the upcoming Power of Women gala in Los Angeles with the inaugural EbMaster Courage Award, sponsored by Purina, which acknowledges both these important issues in unison.

Hyland’s praise acknowledges her vocal championing for survivors of domestic abuse and further bolsters Purina’s Purple Leash Initiative, a program that equips domestic violence shelters with pet-friendly resources. “I am profoundly grateful,” Hyland expresses. “Many shelters do not permit pets, making it challenging for victims to navigate leaving the relationship, especially when pets are involved.” She underlines the significance of having the pet during such difficult times as they can offer vital emotional support. Regrettably, less than 20% of American domestic violence shelters currently accommodate pets.

Many individuals who have experienced abusive relationships often own pets,” she notes. “For me personally, my dog was a crucial source of support during tough times. However, it’s important to acknowledge that animals can also be exploited and used as tools for manipulation. Consequently, their well-being might unintentionally become a weapon to cause harm.

10 years ago, Hyland was granted a protective order against her boyfriend and co-star from “Geek Charming,” Matt Prokop. This order extended protection not only to herself but also to her pet due to threats made towards the dog as well. Advocating for survivors and boosting awareness of support services available to them is particularly significant to her.

For millennia, the topic has remained largely unspoken within our community. I feel strongly that by discussing it more openly, many more individuals – women, men, and everyone in between who find themselves trapped in abusive relationships – will feel empowered to speak up about their experiences with their support networks instead of being kept isolated by their abusers. This isolation is often the first step an abuser takes to gain control. Therefore, it’s crucial that we keep this conversation going to provide assistance to those who need it most.

The aftereffects of the trauma inflicted by that abuse linger far beyond the termination of the relationship, settling deep within the heart of your spirit where you continuously blame yourself for the situation, believing you could have acted differently, escaped sooner, or spoken up. It’s as if you want to move past it and consider it a closed chapter. I fully comprehend the tendency to disassociate from these experiences. I struggle with this myself… until something triggers you, and you may not even realize that aspect of yourself has started to heal. I’m unsure if any woman can ever completely heal from such an experience. It leaves a mark on her soul, one that requires love rather than hatred or neglect.

Sarah Hyland on Why Spreading the Word About Domestic Violence Touches a Personal Nerve

As a devoted movie enthusiast, I can’t help but feel an immense sense of pride for my on-screen daughter, Sarah Hyland, from our hit show “Modern Family.” Over the past decade, she’s faced adversity that many would crumble under. Yet, Sarah has shown remarkable resilience, transforming her struggles into a testament of her character and self-worth.

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2024-10-24 22:16