87S10847 BK-D
By: Hull H.C.R. No. 15
CONCURRENT RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, Domestic violence inflicts a heavy toll of physical,
emotional, and psychological damage in our communities, and the
observance of Domestic Violence Survivors' Day serves as an
opportunity to show support for those who are rebuilding their
lives after suffering abuse; and
WHEREAS, According to a survey published by the Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention, one in every four women and one in
every nine men have experienced some form of severe domestic
violence, including physical violence, sexual violence, or
stalking, and such incidents account for 15 percent of all violent
crime; moreover, domestic violence is linked to higher rates of
depression and suicidal behavior; and
WHEREAS, Domestic abuse can go beyond physical assault to
encompass psychological, emotional, and sexual abuse; the CDC
survey found that nearly half of all adults in the United States
have experienced psychologically aggressive behavior by an
intimate partner, and abusive and controlling behaviors often
escalate over time; and
WHEREAS, The effort to focus greater public attention on this
urgent health care issue has extended over several decades; the
National Coalition Against Domestic Violence held the initial Day
of Unity observance in October 1981, and the scope of the event
expanded in the years that followed; Domestic Violence Awareness
Month was first recognized in October 1987, and that same year the
first national toll-free hotline for victims of domestic violence
was established; Congress officially designated the month in 1989;
and
WHEREAS, These observances help to unite advocates in their
efforts to end domestic violence and to educate the public and
policymakers about its prevalence and its devastating impact;
perhaps most importantly, the events serve as a means to tell the
stories of those who have experienced abuse, to share the inspiring
narratives of survivors, and to provide support to those who are in
the process of healing; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the 87th Legislature of the State of Texas,
1st Called Session, hereby designate the third Monday in October as
Domestic Violence Survivors' Day; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That, in accordance with the provisions of Section
391.004(d), Government Code, this designation remain in effect
until the 10th anniversary of the date this resolution is finally
passed by the legislature.