P R O C L A M A T I O N
WHEREAS, Families strive to create a supportive and affectionate setting for their children. It is within this environment that kids learn to appreciate and honor themselves and others, as well as develop a value system that will shape them into responsible adults and productive members of society; and
WHEREAS, Tragically, domestic violence has turned countless homes into a battlefield, where women, men, children, and the elderly become innocent victims and suffer from both physical and emotional trauma; and
WHEREAS, Domestic violence is a national tragedy that weakens our family unit, leaves physical and emotional scars, and creates a destructive cycle of violence where oftentimes those who were abused become abusers themselves; and
WHEREAS, Domestic violence is a serious crime that affects people of all races, ages, genders, and income levels and costs the nation billions of dollars annually in medical expenses, police and court costs, shelters, foster care, sick leave, absenteeism, and non-productivity; and WHEREAS, As a nation, we need to be committed to ending domestic violence by creating a system that punishes offenders and provides victims with the necessary resources and assistance so that they may escape destructive environments; and
WHEREAS, With heightened awareness, strengthened prevention, and communities uniting for this cause, we can break the cycle of violence and build neighborhoods that are safe for everyone; and WHEREAS, Domestic violence has no place in our society, and in an effort to battle and eradicate domestic violence, October has been designated as DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH; NOW, THEREFORE, The City Council of the City of Barstow hereby proclaims October 2024 as
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH
in the City of Barstow to demonstrate our continued support and commitment to the prevention and elimination of domestic violence;
AND FURTHER, It’s up to all of us to raise our voices and take a stand against domestic violence.
We must support local efforts to assist victims in finding the help and healing they need and work together to eradicate domestic violence in our community to create a safer environment for everyone.
SIGNED AND SEALED at Barstow, California, this 16th day of September 2024. ________________________ ________________________ ________________________ Carmen Hernandez, Council Member Paul Anthony Courtney, Dr.B.A., Mayor James M. Noble, Mayor Pro Tem
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Marilyn Dyer Kruse, Council Member Barbara M. Rose, Council Member