TITLE
A JOINT RESOLUTION AND PROCLAMATION DESIGNATING OCTOBER 2024, AS “DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH” IN THE CITY OF GAHANNA
BODY
WHEREAS, Domestic violence affects millions of people and occurs in every community, regardless of age, gender, ability, ethnicity, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, or religion; and
WHEREAS, Domestic violence is a pattern of coercive, controlling behavior that can include physical, emotional, psychological, sexual, or financial abuse, leaving victims feeling scared, confused, dependent, and uncertain of their ability to survive independently; and
WHEREAS, On average, 32 people per minute are victims of domestic violence by an intimate partner in the United States, which totals 16 million women and men over the course of a year; and
WHEREAS, One in two women, and two in five men, will experience domestic violence in their lifetime, with domestic violence accounting for 15% of all violent crimes reported today; and
WHEREAS, It is estimated that 85% of domestic violence victims are women, and tragically, 75% of domestic violence-related fatalities are women; and
WHEREAS, Each year, millions of children witness domestic violence in their homes, and research shows that children who do not receive help are more likely to become victims or perpetrators of future abuse; and
WHEREAS, Law enforcement, prosecution, courts, probation, and advocacy all play critical roles in building a culture of ending domestic violence; and
WHEREAS, Supporting victims of domestic violence, as well as supporting local programs, state coalitions, national organizations, and other agencies that are committed to increasing public awareness of domestic violence, sends a clear message to abusers that domestic violence is not and will not be tolerated here.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT JOINTLY RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL AND PROCLAIMED BY THE MAYOR OF THE CITY OF GAHANNA, COUNTY OF FRANKLIN, STATE OF OHIO:
Section 1. Designate October 2024 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month in the City of Gahanna, to recognize the pervasive impact of domestic violence and honor the resilience of survivors.
Section 2. Encourage all Gahanna residents to increase awareness of domestic violence, learn how to recognize signs of abuse, and support those affected.
Section 3. Commit to supporting local organizations, law enforcement, and advocates working to prevent domestic violence, protect victims, and hold offenders accountable, while fostering a safe and supportive community for all.