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To the editor:
Each year, in October, advocates, survivors, and supporters recognize October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM). In 1989 the U.S. Congress passed Public Law 101-112 designating October of that year as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month for the first time. Such legislation has passed every year since highlighting the importance of honoring those who have died as a result of domestic violence, honoring those who have survived, and connecting current victims and their loved ones with confidential, life-saving services.
More prevalent than most realize, over 10 million people experience domestic violence in the United States each year. Anyone, regardless of gender, race, sexual identity or orientation, or socio-economic status, can become a victim of domestic violence. This year's campaign theme, #Every1KnowsSome1, strives to highlight how common domestic violence is and that it is more than physical violence. Victims are people you know...mothers, daughters, sisters, grandmothers, etc.
Sadly, during 2021, 112 women, children, and men lost their lives in Pennsylvania due to domestic violence. This equates to a death every 3 days in our Commonwealth. During October, our Purple Flag Campaign will be visible at Lewistown Five Points and the Mifflintown Circle. There will be a display of flags representing each victim. Throughout October, check out our social media. We will be sharing content to help raise awareness and educate the public on the complex dynamics of domestic violence.
Locally, The Abuse Network provides confidential, free services to victims of domestic violence including crisis counseling, advocacy and accompaniment for medical and legal appointments, and personal advocacy to assists with getting needed resources. Our agency also works year-round toward ending domestic violence by educating the public to expand knowledge of domestic violence and to increase prevention of this crime. Educational programs concerning domestic violence are free of charge and are offered in schools and to professional and civic groups.
Get engaged this October during Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Join us in embracing your role in ending domestic violence. Please call for services or further information 24-hours-a-day at (888) 810-2444 or (717) 242-2444.
Join us this year as we bring awareness and support during Domestic Violence Awareness Month because #Every1KnowsSome1.
Rebecca Wills
Public training coordinator
The Abuse Network