Whereas , The Federal Bureau of Investigation's 2006 Uniform Crime Report indicates that of the 1,290 known intimate partner homicides in the U.S., approximately 79 percent were female victims; and,

Whereas , The 2006 report from the Michigan State Police Criminal Justice Information Center identifies 93 intimate partner homicides and 103,389 domestic violence offenses; and,

Whereas , Domestic violence is the intentional and patterned use of physical, emotional, sexual, psychological, and economic coercion and abuse; and,

Whereas , Domestic violence violates an individual's dignity, security, and humanity; and,

Whereas , The state of Michigan is committed to taking a firm position against domestic violence and will remain focused on ensuring that women and children are safe in their homes and abusers are held accountable for their crimes; and,

Whereas , Domestic Violence Month provides an excellent opportunity for citizens to learn more about domestic violence issues and to show support for the numerous organizations and individuals who are providing advocacy efforts, services, and assistance to domestic violence victims; and now therefore be it,

Resolved , That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, Governor of the State of Michigan, do hereby proclaim October 2008 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month in Michigan, and I encourage all citizens to join in the efforts to help bring an end to this serious problem.