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Declaring October 2026 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month
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WHEREAS, domestic violence and intimate partner violence affect millions of people in the United States and can have lasting effects on the physical and emotional health, safety, and well-being of survivors and their families; and
WHEREAS, intimate partner violence can include physical violence, sexual violence, stalking, and psychological aggression, including behaviors intended to harm, intimidate, or exert control over a partner; and
WHEREAS, children may be directly or indirectly affected by domestic violence, and according to the most recent available New Jersey State Police statistics, children were actively involved in or present during 16,858 reported domestic violence incidents, representing approximately 24 percent of all reported domestic violence incidents statewide; and
WHEREAS, domestic violence carries significant economic and societal costs, including expenses associated with medical care, lost productivity, and the criminal justice system, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimating the lifetime economic cost of intimate partner violence in the United States at approximately $3.6 trillion; and
WHEREAS, preventing domestic violence requires a coordinated community effort involving residents, families, law enforcement, health and social service providers, educators, advocates, and community organizations; and
WHEREAS, Domestic Violence Awareness Month provides an important opportunity for residents to learn more about domestic violence, recognize the signs of abuse, promote healthy and respectful relationships, and show support for the organizations and individuals who provide critical advocacy, services, and assistance to survivors; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED on this 7th day of October, 2026, by the Township Council of the Township of South Brunswick, County of Middlesex, State of New Jersey, that the month of October is hereby declared as DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH in the Township of South Brunswick and call upon all residents to work together to prevent domestic violence, support survivors, and stand against abuse in all forms.