Whereas, Spanning centuries, cultures and continents, domestic violence is a tragic epidemic that has plagued our society, having devastating effects on countless numbers of women and children; and,

Whereas, The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s 2002 Uniform Crime Report indicates that of the 1300 known intimate partner homicides in the U.S., approximately 80 percent were female victims; and,

Whereas, The crime of domestic violence violates an individual’s privacy, dignity, security and humanity due to systematic use of physical, emotional, sexual, psychological and economic control and/or abuse; 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 2004, as Domestic Violence Awareness Month in Michigan, and I urge all citizens to join in the efforts to end this serious problem.