October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month — a time to raise understanding, encourage prevention, and remind our community that no one deserves to live in fear.
Domestic violence can affect people of all ages, backgrounds, and neighborhoods. It often happens behind closed doors and can be deeply isolating for survivors. Many face challenges around their physical and emotional safety, their children, finances, immigration status, lack of transportation, and limited access to resources. All of us on the Council dais tonight are wearing purple pins to draw attention to domestic violence. These pins are more than a symbol—they are a visible reminder to our neighbors that domestic violence is not acceptable, survivors deserve support, and everyone has a role in prevention and intervention.
Community leaders are often the first line of support for domestic violence victims —through schools, faith communities, workplaces, healthcare settings, neighborhood organizations, and other local groups. There are practical ways we can help:
Listen without judgment when someone shares a concern.
Connect people to resources through trusted services.
Use awareness to educate, not shame.
Intervene safely when possible and report when necessary.
Promote prevention by encouraging healthy relationships and accountability.
To every survivor who may be listening today: you are not alone. Your safety matters, your voice matters, and your future matters. And please be aware that resources are available to you. The Victim Services Division of the Alameda City Attorney’s Office has a team of compassionate professionals on staff to help survivors with guidance, support services, safety planning, and connections to care. Since 2025, the Victim Services Division has handled 119 separate matters. Each of these represent human lives, across all ages, from young adults to elders, and every ethnic group and background imaginable. The Victim Services Division is here to help anyone in need - please call 510-206-1657 or via email at [email protected] to connect with them.
To all of us in this room and watching online — thank you for standing up, speaking out, and helping build a community where safety and dignity are not earned, but guaranteed.