U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran (R-KS) on Oct. 14 called on Americans to recognize the devastating impact that domestic violence continues to have on individuals, families, and communities, and to do their part in helping to end the problem.
“Though the issue of domestic violence often remains hidden behind closed doors, it’s a reality that affects millions of Americans every year,” Sen. Moran said on the floor of the U.S. Senate. “While national headlines may briefly focus attention on this issue when a tragedy occurs or a public figure is involved, our commitment to ending abuse must remain constant after the news cycle moves on.”
In recognizing October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Sen. Moran also drew awareness to the work of advocates in Kansas and across the country who provide care and support for victims of domestic violence, including Hope Unlimited in Iola, Kan.; SAFEHOME in Johnson County, Kan.; Stepstone in Wichita, Kan.; and Crisis Center Inc. in Manhattan, Kan.
“We have a responsibility to bring hope to those who feel afraid to speak out,” said Sen. Moran. “I want to recognize the Kansans who dedicate their lives to that mission: those who work and volunteer in shelters, crisis centers, advocacy organizations, and law enforcement across the country. Their compassion and courage make a difference every single day.”
The lawmaker also said that domestic violence between partners affects more than 12 million people every year, and on a typical day, every nine seconds, a woman is assaulted in the United States.
“In Kansas, law enforcement reports nearly 22,000 incidents of domestic violence annually,” he said. “These aren’t statistics from faraway places; they reflect our friends, neighbors, coworkers, and family members.”
Sen. Moran said that domestic violence is more than a law enforcement or a policy issue.
“Each of us can and must play a role in ending it,” he said. “This month, and every month, let us recommit ourselves to breaking the cycle of abuse. Let’s do our part to speak out against violence in all its forms and stand with those who have been silenced for too long. Let’s raise awareness of this silent and devastating issue and bring hope to those who need it most.”