" We have to stop this violence. We have to make the political nature of the violence clear, that the violence we experience in our own homes is not a personal family matter, it’s a public and political problem. It’s a way that women are kept in line, kept in our places. "
- Patricia Ireland

In the quote, Patricia Ireland emphasizes the necessity for collective action against violence that targets women. She points out that violence experienced within homes should not be seen as a private issue but rather as a public and political concern. This perspective challenges the common notion that domestic abuse is merely a personal matter between family members.

Ireland's statement goes beyond the surface-level understanding of violence in households by highlighting its systemic and societal roots. She asserts that such violence is part of a larger system designed to control women, maintaining traditional gender roles and limiting their freedom and opportunities. By framing this issue as political, she underscores the importance of legislative intervention and societal awareness in addressing the root causes of domestic abuse. This perspective encourages society to see beyond individual incidents and recognize patterns of oppression that perpetuate violence against women.

Patricia Ireland is a notable figure in the realm of women's rights advocacy and social justice. As the founder of one of the first shelters for battered women, she has dedicated her life to fighting against gender-based violence and promoting women’s empowerment. Her work highlights the need for comprehensive approaches to combatting domestic abuse by addressing both legal frameworks and societal attitudes towards women.