October 2019: Domestic Violence Awareness Month

WHEREAS, domestic violence perpetrators intentionally use a pattern of physical, emotional, sexual, psychological, and/or economic coercion and abuse to control their partners, violating their dignity, security, and psychological as well as physical well-being; and,

WHEREAS, domestic violence perpetrators cause significant and long-lasting trauma to countless individuals and families; and,

WHEREAS, when children are involved, domestic violence perpetrators’ choice to be violent and abusive often have devastating and far reaching adverse impacts on the safety and well-being of children and their non-offending parents; and,

WHEREAS, the 2018 Michigan State Police’s Incident Crime Report indicated there were 29,462 domestic violence offenses committed by current or former intimate partners reported to Michigan law enforcement during the year; and,

WHEREAS, Michigan is committed to holding domestic violence perpetrators accountable, employing interventions in order to reduce the risk and harm to all victims as well as providing victims the resources and support they deserve to enhance their safety and well-being; and,

WHEREAS, Domestic Violence Awareness Month provides an important opportunity to learn more about domestic violence and to demonstrate support for the numerous organizations and individuals who provide advocacy efforts, services, and assistance to victims; and,

WHEREAS, Domestic Violence Awareness Month is an opportunity to recognize the strength and courage of those currently surviving abuse as well as honor those who were murdered or harmed at the hands of their current or former partners;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim October 2019 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month in Michigan.