TO: Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council
FROM: Councilmember Charlene Wang
DATE: October 22, 2025
SUBJECT: Resolution Proclaiming October 2025 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month in the City of Oakland
RECOMMENDATION
Adopt a Resolution proclaiming October 2025 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month in the City of Oakland and encouraging community participation in events and initiatives that raise awareness, prevent violence, and support survivors.
SUMMARY
Domestic violence remains a serious and widespread issue affecting Oakland residents across all backgrounds. The proposed resolution recognizes October 2025 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month, aligning with national and statewide observances. It underscores the City’s ongoing commitment to supporting survivors, collaborating with local service providers, and promoting prevention and education efforts.
BACKGROUND
Domestic violence is a leading cause of injury and trauma in communities nationwide. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that nearly one in three women and one in four men experience physical, sexual, or stalking violence by an intimate partner during their lifetime.
In Oakland, thousands of domestic violence offenses are reported each year, including incidents involving weapons. Local organizations such as A Safe Place, Family Violence Law Center, and the Alameda County Family Justice Center provide essential services including shelter, counseling, legal advocacy, and prevention programs. The city works closely with these and other community partners to improve victim safety and coordinate multi-agency responses to domestic violence.
Declaring October 2025 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month will amplify public awareness, honor survivors, and strengthen the City’s collaborative efforts to end domestic violence.
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no fiscal impact to the City of Oakland from this resolution.
Prepared by: Michael Wimsatt
Chief of Staff