Mayors Sign Proclamation Deeming October 2023 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month
Domestic Violence Awareness Month kicked off in Hardeman County as City of Bolivar Mayor Julian McTizic and Hardeman County Mayor Todd Pulse came together and were joined by representatives from the Wo/Men’s Resource and Rape Assistance Program (WRAP) to proclaim October 2023 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The public signing of the proclamation was to bring light to this “destructive force in our society and to become part of the efforts to build safe, stable, nurturing relationships, and families”.
According to the proclamation, “There were 222 domestic violence reports to law enforcement in Hardeman County in 2022; and 42 percent of all crimes against persons reported to law enforcement throughout Hardeman County involved some form of domestic or sexual violence; and eight individuals lost their lives to domestic violence in West Tennessee in 2022, with one of those being in Hardeman County”.
In addition to the mayors, WRAP representatives, and community partners, a domestic violence survivor was present and shared her story. It served as a reminder that not all victims bear the signs of physical abuse. Abuse may also be psychological, emotional, or financial and many victims struggle to find the support they need.
Wrap was founded more than 40 years ago in 1975 to provide “trauma informed supportive services to survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault and their families“. Since its inception, it has grown to cover 19 counties in West Tennessee, which includes Hardeman County.
Need help due to domestic violence or know someone who does? Call the WRAP 24/7 statewide helpline (800) 273-8712 or visit www.wraptn.org. If you live in Fayette County, you may also contact www.fayettecares.org for assistance.
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