PROCLAMATION

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH

OCTOBER 2005

WHEREAS, domestic violence is a serious crime that affects people of all races, ages, income levels, sexes and religious backgrounds;

WHEREAS, the crime of domestic violence violates an individual’s privacy, dignity, security and humanity through the systematic use of physical, emotional, sexual, psychological and economic control or abuse;

WHEREAS, in Alabama, in the year 2004, there were 33 domestic violence homicides, almost 2,000 aggravated assaults and over 26,000 simple assaults making domestic violence a major public concern for our state;

WHEREAS, children who grow up in violent homes are believed to be abused and neglected at a rate higher than the national average;

WHEREAS, the consequences of domestic violence extend beyond the family and result in millions of dollars spent in medical costs, police and court costs, shelter expenses, foster care, sick leave, and is a cause of absenteeism and non-productivity;

WHEREAS, public awareness and education about domestic violence which results in a coordinated community response can put an end to these criminal acts; and recognizing the importance of the faith community and its role in offering comfort and support to victims of domestic violence;

WHEREAS, the City of Ashland is committed to ensuring that women and children are safe in their homes and abusers are held accountable for their crimes;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, TERRY TURNER, MAYOR OF THE CITY OF ASHLAND, ALABAMA, do hereby proclaim the month of October 2005 to be Domestic Violence Awareness Month in the City of Ashland and urge all citizens and people of faith to participate actively in scheduled events and programs that focus on this cause.  I further encourage all citizens of the City of Ashland and surrounding communities to adopt attitudes and policies that will enable them to become Havens of Safety and Circles of Care for victims and survivors of domestic violence.

Adopted this the 3^rd day of October 2005.

___________________________________

Mayor

Attest:___________________________________