Whereas, The Federal Bureau of Investigation's 2007 Uniform Crime Report indicates that of the 1,332 known intimate partner homicides in the U.S., approximately 78 percent were female victims; and,

Whereas, The 2007 report from the Michigan State Police Criminal Justice Information Center reports 100 intimate partner homicides and more than 73,000 domestic violence offenses; and,

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

Whereas, Domestic violence violates an individual's dignity, security, and psychological and physical well-being; and,
Whereas, The state of Michigan is committed to taking a firm position against domestic violence and will remain focused on ensuring that victims are safe in their homes and abusers are held accountable for their crimes; and,

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

Now, Therefore, be it Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, governor of the state of Michigan, do hereby proclaim October 2009 Domestic Violence Awareness Month in Michigan.  I encourage all citizens to join in the efforts to help bring an end to this serious problem.