Latest news with #DomesticViolenceAwarenessMonth
Time of India
16-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader Chandi Dayle opens up about abuse, mental health, and her decision to leave DCC in an emotional farewell
In Season 2 of Netflix's America's Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, Chandi Dayle emerged as one of the most compelling and quietly resilient figures on the squad. A sixth-year veteran of the DCC, Chandi's final season wasn't defined by glamor or touchdowns—but by a deeply personal battle with trauma, leadership, and ultimately, the courage to walk away on her own terms. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Chandi Dayle becomes group leader but battles self-doubt and emotional scars behind the scenes Although Chandi is a reserved presence compared to some of her more outspoken teammates, she was voted a 1st Group Leader by all 24 rookies—an incredible feat that speaks volumes about the quiet respect she commanded. In the words of DCC's Senior Director Kelli Finglass, the group leaders 'help with choreography, communication, and serve as mentors.' Yet for Chandi, stepping into leadership meant confronting internal struggles she had long buried. Chandi has a history of masking her pain. Her childhood was marked by abandonment—her father told her they didn't need to see each other again—and later, a physically abusive relationship that left lingering fear. 'I used to hide my past, afraid of judgment and shame,' she wrote during Domestic Violence Awareness Month. 'As a survivor, I know I am more than my scars.' Her fellow DCC members, including mentor Judy Trammell, recognized her difficulty making big decisions and constantly seeking approval. 'She craves her attention and approval,' Judy noted, seeing a younger version of herself in Chandi. A Bahamas fling, mental health struggles, and her decision to retire spark controversy and reflection Things came to a head after a fling with a man she met in the Bahamas following her breakup with boyfriend Ryan. Feeling emotionally vulnerable and alone, Chandi invited him back to her hotel room—a choice that sparked tension among teammates over security concerns. She soon took a mental health break, missing games and practices. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now During her absence, teammate KayDianna—who had temporarily stepped into Chandi's leadership role—became entangled in controversy for vaguely referencing the Bahamas incident on TikTok. A screen-recorded clip ignited a firestorm online, leading to a bullying investigation. KayDianna was suspended and ultimately walked away from the team. In the season finale, Chandi hobbled into her final meeting in a hip brace and delivered a tearful goodbye: 'There was a long time where I was scared to live without dance because that was my safe place.' Now retired, Chandi is focusing on healing, judging for her alma mater's Pomline team, and embracing a new chapter beyond the sidelines. Also Read:
Yahoo
08-03-2025
- Yahoo
What is the impact of domestic violence in Mississippi?
JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – Amid prominent cases featuring individuals accused of relationship violence statewide, statistics shed light on the scope of the issue in Mississippi. Domestic Violence Awareness Month may be in October, but its devastating impact exists throughout the year. A 2023 report analyzing services used during one day found that hundreds of Mississippians rely on shelter services to protect themselves. Oftentimes, victims cannot receive the services they need. During the one-day overview of domestic violence services across Mississippi, 56 service requests could not be met due to a lack of resources. Approximately 82% of these unmet requests were for housing and emergency shelter. State data provides an overview of how domestic violence services are used. In fiscal year 2015, domestic violence programs in Mississippi received a total of 40,317 calls for emergency assistance or referrals. Shelters provided temporary housing and safety to 2,114 women, men and children. Bill would establish Domestic Violence Fatality Review Board in Mississippi That year, about three in five women who were provided shelter reported an annual family income of less than $5,000. Only 3% reported a family income of greater than $30,000. Under Mississippi law, the scope of domestic violence includes current or former romantic partners or spouses, as well as family members. This includes children, grandchildren, parents and grandparents. It also encompasses violations of domestic abuse protective orders, as well as certain misdemeanor and criminal actions. These actions include, but are not limited to, the following: Stalking or cyberstalking Simple or aggravated assault Sexual battery or rape Kidnapping Physical, emotional or psychological harm to a victim by a spouse, former spouse or other specified individuals also qualifies as domestic violence. The crime's classification as a misdemeanor or felony is dependent on the severity of the offense and the number of times it is committed. A bill to establish a second domestic violence offense as a felony died in committee this legislative session. Bills in 2021 and 2022 that sought to bar convicted domestic abusers from owning guns also died in committee. However, bills to establish a domestic violence fatality review board passed in both the Mississippi House and Senate back in February. Each bill passed in each respective chamber unanimously. According to the Mississippi Coalition Against Domestic Violence, 11 domestic violence shelters exist statewide to serve Mississippians. To access them or other resources, click here. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
