“Gallatin County says no to violence.”: Coasters campaign reaches local bars

Patrons at Gallatin County bars are finding a clear message on their coasters this fall: “Gallatin County says no to violence.” It’s part of a campaign launched this week by a countywide team of law enforcement, attorneys, advocates, and community members working together to reduce domestic violence in Gallatin County.

Coasters on display at Beehive Basin Brewery in Big Sky. (Photo Haven.)

The coasters, which team members handed out to bars on Oct. 23, are part of a campaign to bring more knowledge and understanding of domestic violence during Domestic Violence Awareness Month in October. 

Bar patrons will not only see the coasters in select bars from Three Forks to West Yellowstone, but they’ll also see flyers repeating the same message in bar bathrooms. The flyers and coasters offer local support phone numbers, websites, and information to anyone reading, to spread the word about available local support.  

A Haven staffer tapes the flyer up in a bathroom at Big Sky’s Beehive Basin Brewery. (Photo Haven.)

The coasters and flyers were spearheaded by the countywide Domestic Violence Response Team in their work to support domestic violence survivors and reduce homicides. The team is made up of local police, lawyers, judges, victim services staff, and local domestic violence advocates. Its past successes include training local law enforcement to ask seven simple questions of survivors on every domestic violence call they make; risk assessments like this have saved lives throughout the United States. 

“At Haven, we want to make sure we’re serving all of Gallatin County,” said Haven Executive Director Erica Aytes Coyle. “For many of our communities in the area, this is such a great way to meet people where they are: the local watering hole. We know that one in five people experience intimate partner violence firsthand, so letting everyone across the valley know about the resources can truly be the turning point that encourages someone to reach out for support.”

Partners added their comments in support of this effort.

Jim Veltkamp, Bozeman Police Department Chief:
"Domestic violence often goes unseen. This campaign ensures resources are visible and that conversations are sparked. As officers, we see firsthand the devastating effects of domestic violence in our community. We also understand how difficult it can be to seek help. Our goal is to be a trusted place that survivors can turn to for protection and support. There is a way forward to safety, and we are here to help you find it."

Audrey Cromwell, County Attorney, Gallatin County: 
“As county attorney, I witness firsthand the devastating impact of domestic violence on families and communities. It's imperative that we strengthen our commitment to domestic violence awareness and enforcement. By implementing stringent measures and supporting survivor resources, we not only aim to reduce the incidence of domestic abuse but also work toward a significant decrease in related homicides. Our goal is clear: create a safer environment where violence is met with zero tolerance and victims receive the justice and support they deserve."

Dustin Lensing, Belgrade Police Chief:
“As law enforcement, our priority is the safety and well-being of all members of our community. Domestic violence is a complex issue, but raising awareness and ensuring that resources are readily available can make a significant difference. This campaign is a simple way to be a lifeline for someone in need.”

Dan Springer, Gallatin County Sheriff: 
“The Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office stands firmly against all forms of domestic violence. We are committed to holding offenders accountable and ensuring justice is served. Our role goes beyond making arrests; we are dedicated to supporting victims and their families with compassion and exceptional service in their time of need. Together, we stand in solidarity with survivors, working to build a safer community for everyone."

Greg Sullivan, Bozeman City Attorney:
“Working on behalf of victims of crime on a daily basis, we too often see the real impacts to families and the community from domestic violence. We believe every person has the responsibility to be informed and take action and think the coasters are a great way to raise awareness.”

Related media coverage:

“Haven puts coasters in Gallatin County bars to raise domestic violence awareness,” KBZK, Oct. 24.

“Haven: October coaster tycoons,” Hoary Marmot podcast, Oct. 25. Episode links: Apple | Spotify.

“Six-word message appears in bars for domestic violence awareness,” Explore Big Sky, Oct. 28.

“'Gallatin County says no to violence': Campaign targets bars,” Three Forks Voice, Oct. 30.

“Domestic violence awareness campaign in Bozeman aims to educate locals,” ABC Fox Montana, Oct. 30.