October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month
VERMONT - October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Project Against Violent Encounters (PAVE) joins women – and men – all across the country to support victims of violence and to send the message that domestic violence is unacceptable in our community and in every community.Domestic violence touches every one of us. It makes children fearful and angry. It keeps employees from being able to work. It contributes to crime on our streets. It destroys homes and families. It fills emergency rooms and morgues.
In Bennington County, in the first half of 2009, there were 72 domestic offenses as compared to the year 2008 in which there were a total of 85 domestic offenses. We are seeing an escalation in the severity of crimes, such as strangulation and stalking.
In an effort to raise awareness, PAVE is partnering with a number of agencies throughout Bennington County.
The Northshire Bookstore in Manchester will bring domestic violence to the forefront with a special, month-long collection of literature – fiction, short stories, non-fiction, including literature on how to protect you and your children. On Thursday, October 29th, 7:00-8:00 p.m., a reception will be given, at which Emily McGann, Victims Advocate for the State’s Attorneys’ Office, will present a perspective of the special court protocol set for the domestic violence cases in Bennington County. Officer Paul McGann of the Manchester Police Department will be on hand to discuss law enforcement involvement.
The Interfaith Council of Bennington, consisting of fifteen houses of worship, will include the topic of family violence in their sermons.
CAT-TV will feature a short film followed by panel discussion addressing domestic violence and its impact on families and children in our community.
Curves of Bennington and The Gym in Manchester Center will collect non-perishable foods and toiletries throughout the month of October.
Domestic violence is everybody’s business. PAVE supports the rights of all persons to live in peace and dignity and encourages the participation of the entire community towards achieving this goal.
