A 2022 study by King’s College London found that more than 1 in 10 military personnel have experienced intimate partner violence and abuse.
This alarming statistic exists due to the hierarchical nature of the military, which contributes to a strong patriarchal environment. In many ways, the military is a mirror to the rest of society. We are currently still living in a world where gender-based violence and inequality continues to occur daily.
Samantha Patrick was born into a military family, and later married into another. Having experienced firsthand how wives and families are treated in the military community, Samantha felt driven to create a safe space where women can seek help from each other and be validated in their traumatic experiences.
Samantha’s raw and honest videos on social media have attracted a flood of responses from women in similar positions as her. Using her experiences to shed light into the prevalence of domestic abuse faced by military wives, as well as other issues faced by women globally, Samantha has received hundreds of messages asking for resources and help.
In order to maximise her platform for good, she created Dope Soul Village, an ethical fashion and lifestyle brand which donates 20% of profits to women-focused charities.
Dope Soul Village takes pride in bold and daring designs, often with strong statements designed to spark conversation, educate the public and challenge social norms. Designed by Samantha herself, Dope Soul Village’s clothing and accessories are emblazoned with punchy slogans such as “Women belong in all places where decisions are being made”, “Real men support women” and the straightforward “F*ck the patriarchy”.
Dope Soul Village also ensures that all their products are 100% vegan-certified organic cotton, ensuring that their positive impact extends to sustainability.
It takes a village to enact significant change, and Dope Soul Village invites every woman to join their sisterhood and fight for the end of patriarchy!
Shop Dope Soul Village now at: https://dopesoulvillage.com/.
