Dear Editor,
On September 16, the Mohave County Board of Supervisors signed a Proclamation designating October Domestic Violence Awareness Month. This month is designated to bring awareness to communities of this nationwide epidemic. The goal is to educate, create conversations and create culture changes within the community.
Domestic violence is a pattern of controlling behaviors where one person uses their power to control the other. Domestic violence can take many forms, including physical, sexual, emotional, and financial abuse. It is not isolated to any one gender, race, economic situation, or upbringing. Our state has seen the damage this issue can inflict not only on victims, but on our community. Domestic violence makes up 21% of all violent crimes in the U.S., and Arizona placed in the top 15 states with the highest number of domestic violence-related cases. In addition, over 1 million animals are killed or abused each year in connection with domestic violence is the U.S.
Mohave County residents are asked to come together, have candid conversations and take action against domestic violence. Our goal is to break the cycle of abuse.
You can show your support by wearing purple on Thursday, October 24, placing a purple ribbon on your shirt and replace your lights at home or your business with purple lights. There are several events statewide and within Mohave County throughout October that bring communities together to stamp out Domestic Violence.
If you need further information, please contact the domestic violence advocate at the Mohave County Victim/Witness Program at 928-718-4967.
Laura Escapule
Mohave County Attorney Office / Domestic Violence Advocate
