If you believe you are in danger, don't wait - call 911 immediately and get help!!!
You can also contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline: Call 1.800.799.SAFE (7233)
YOU DO NOT HAVE TO ACCEPT BEING OR BECOMING A VICTIM
Are you a victim of domestic violence or just want to be responsible for your own safety and the safety of your loved ones in general? You are not alone, we can help!
Reach out to us: Kerrie@GOAL.org or 508-393-5333 ext. 20
Regardless of your race, gender, religious beliefs, political leanings, you have the basic human right to defend yourself and the ones you love. Gun Owners' Action League (GOAL) has launched this project to educate and assist people of all walks of life in their effort to take responsibility for their own safety. A restraining order is an important legal step, but it is only a piece of paper. It won't help you, or your loved ones, when an attacker is through your front door! |
GOAL has established this webpage and social media platforms to provide you with everything you need to become more personally involved in your safety in an ever increasingly dangerous world.
Even if you have never thought about your own security, the time to work on it is BEFORE bad things happen. You may have never thought you would be comfortable with physical self-defense, but let us help figure that out.
- If you want to learn more about firearms for self-defense - we can help.
- If you think you would be more comfortable with "less than lethal" means such as electronic tools or pepper spray - we can help.
- Want to learn more about general situational awareness and safety - we can help.
- Prefer to be trained by women - we can help.
| Angi Fisher is the Chief of Staff at Gun Owners' Action League (GOAL). Angi has been with GOAL since 2007 and is very experienced with all aspects of our operation. If you need assistance on being connected with any of the help we offer please contact her directly and she can provide you with the appropriate contacts and information to get you started in the right direction. Reach out to us: Angela@goal.org or 508-393-5333 ext. 20 |
| Firearms Training: Firearms are the ultimate self-defense tool. The laws in Massachusetts are complex and require training in order to acquire a License to Carry (LTC) or a Firearms Identification Card (FID). GOAL and our affiliated cadre of instructors can guide you through the process and the laws governing the licenses. We can also help you get the best training available with certified instructors that will provide you with safe, professional training in a welcoming and stress free environment. |
| Electronic Devices: The Massachusetts prohibition on electronic defensive devices, commonly known as "Stun Guns", was repealed after a 2016 Supreme Court of the United (SCOTUS) decision in JAIME CAETANO v. MASSACHUSETTS. A victim of domestic violence who brandished a stun gun against her attacker and was initially convicted for unlawful possession. |
 | Defensive Sprays: Through GOAL's work in the legislature, defensive sprays became much more accessible to lawful adults. Under the new law, Chapter 140 Section 122C, 15-17 can possess pepper spray if they acquire a Firearms Identification Card. 18yrs and older do not need an FID but has to be able to acquire one. |
Other Resources
National Domestic Violence Hotline: Call 1.800.799.SAFE (7233)
Massachusetts Address Confidentiality Program
Massachusetts Office for Victim Assistance: (617) 586-1340
SafeLink is Massachusetts’ statewide 24/7 toll-free domestic violence hotline and a resource for anyone affected by domestic or dating violence: 877-785-2020
Massachusetts General Information for Domestic Violence Victims
Mental Health and Suicide Resources
While this project emphasizes self-defense and preventing people from becoming victims, there is great strain on people who are being threatened or have already gone through a traumatic experience. It is vitally important important to your well being, and the people who love and care for you, to seek out help if you are feeling completely overwhelmed.
“988” is the new three-digit, nationwide phone number to connect directly to the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. By calling or texting 988, you’ll connect with mental health professionals with the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, formerly known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Veterans can press “1” after dialing 988 to connect directly to the Veterans Crisis Lifeline which serves our nation’s Veterans, service members, National Guard and Reserve members, and those who support them. For texts, Veterans should continue to text the Veterans Crisis Lifeline short code: 838255. |
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GOAL's Massachusetts Domestic Violence Legislation
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An Act relative to protecting domestic violence victims: This bill was filed by Massachusetts State Representative Alyson Sullivan-Almeida. The legislation would provide severe penalties for for attackers who illegally enter a home especially if children are present. It would also provide legal protections for victims that had to use force to defend themselves or children.
- An Act relative to violent protection order violations: This bill was filed by Massachusetts State Representative Susan Williams Gifford. The legislation would provide those who successfully acquire a protection order with self-defense resources. It would also provide legal protections for potential victims if they have to use force to defend themselves anywhere they have the right to be.
