Domestic Violence Awareness Month kicks off Thursday

National Domestic Violence Awareness Month will open in Caddo and Bossier parishes Thursday, October 2, with a proclamation ceremony at 10 a.m. on the Texas Street side of the Caddo Parish Courthouse, 501 Texas Street.

Local public officials will be in attendance to make brief comments and issue a proclamation. A calendar of events happening through the month will be forthcoming.

Shreveport and Caddo Parish have seen a number of high-profile instances of domestic violence affecting men, women and families, as well as an increasing number of actions by law enforcement agencies, courts and district attorneys to prosecute and punish perpetrators of domestic violence.

"Our community desperately needs to come together to address this overwhelming issue," says Leone Fitzgerald, president of the Caddo/Bossier Domestic Violence Task Force and director of the Victim Assistance Program at the Caddo Parish District Attorney’s office, one of the sponsors of the month's activities. "Domestic abuse can happen to anyone at any point in a relationship."

Domestic Violence Awareness Month began in 1981 when the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence initiated the first Day of Unity to connect advocates across the country who were working to end violence against women. Recognizing the need for a dedicated time to focus on this issue, the observance evolved into a month-long campaign in 1987. The establishment of DVAM was pivotal in bringing domestic violence into the public consciousness and encouraging societal dialogue about the need for change. It is an opportunity for individuals and organizations to come together to shed light on the issue, advocate for prevention, and support those affected. 

One in four women have experienced violence from an intimate partner, but it affects people of all ages, sexes, races and backgrounds. More than 70 million people in the United States have been its victims. Domestic violence comes in many forms, not only physical harm but stalking, psychological abuse, bullying and online intimidation. Older adults can experience abuse from caregivers or family members, while teens and young adults may face dating violence. 

"No one deserves to live in fear and we want those who are to know what avenues are available to them and, oftentimes, their children and other family members as well," Ms. Fitzgerald added. "Not only in October, but every day, we want representatives from all walks of life to unite and support the people who need it. Our goal is for victims and survivors to know that they do not walk alone."

Other sponsors include Project Celebration Inc., the Shreveport Police Department, the Caddo Parish Sheriff’s office, the Shreveport City Marshal’s office, the Shreveport Mayor’s office and Louisiana Victim Outreach.

People or organizations seeking more information on local Domestic Violence Awareness Month events should call Ms. Fitzgerald at (318) 226-5916, ext. 1, or email her at Lfitzgerald@caddoda.com, or they may contact Project Celebration, Inc. at (318) 221-8003.

For more information, visit domesticviolence.org or caddoda.com