Just last year, there were at least 85 deaths as a result of domestic violence in Arizona. Approximately 60% of those happened in Maricopa County, according to the Arizona Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence.
Maricopa County’s Board of Supervisors issued a proclamation today recognizing October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The county’s efforts create an opportunity for residents and Maricopa County’s more than 13,000 employees to learn about domestic violence prevention.
“One out of four women, and one out of 10 men experience domestic violence," said Supervisor Steve Gallardo, District 5. "If you know someone who’s in a bad situation, we want to be able to provide help and point them in the right direction."
“It’s an important issue in our community. People need to be aware of it,” said Chairman Bill Gates, District 3. “We are excited to be partnering with the city of Phoenix, State of Arizona and community organizations to shine a light on this issue.”
Throughout the month of October, the County will have events to increase awareness. These include:
- Color the County - The County Administration Building, located at 301 W. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, will be lit purple throughout the month.
- Wear Purple Day! – On Thursday, October 24, residents and employees are encouraged to wear purple to demonstrate commitment to ending domestic violence. Post your photo online with: #ColorTheCounty, and we will share it!
- Maricopa County will be collecting full-size toiletries to donate to domestic violence shelters. You can donate at any Maricopa County Library.
- District 5 Supervisor Steve Gallardo will host a series of employee coffee events during October to share information and resources. He will be joined by representatives from the Arizona Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence, Chicanos Por La Causa - De Colores, and Maricopa County Employee Benefits.