The Murder of Amie Harwick and Domestic Violence Culture in America
By: Emily J. Sullivan
The murder of Amie Harwick is a jolting reminder that domestic violence, specifically intimate partner violence toward women, is a deadly issue that continually slips below the public’s radar. That is, with the exception of those fighting the issue behind the scenes, professionals and champions like Harwick herself.
Harwick was a perfect contradiction where stereotypes are concerned — a doctor of human sexuality and a Playboy model.
She exemplified female sexual empowerment, independence and strength, unabashed ambition, revolt against shame. She demolished the long-perpetuated notion that a women’s intellect and sex appeal are mutually exclusive and never shied away from simultaneously embracing her brains and beauty.
Amie Harwick was bold , accomplished, stereotype-smashing— and she was murdered.
The sun set on Valentine’s Day 2020 and Amie Harwick returned home to her 1927 tudor style mini-manor in the Hollywood Hills. When February 14 ended and the new day began, the amorous haze associated with both the day and the woman vanished, a dark and empty void was left in its place.
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