WHEREAS, victim-survivors of domestic violence are not confined to any group or groups of people but cross all economic, racial, affectional preference, ability levels, and societal barriers; and requires all Nevadans to take action to reduce harm; and

WHEREAS, domestic violence violates an individual's privacy, dignity, security, and humanity, due to systematic use of physical, emotional, sexual, psychological, and economic control and/or abuse; and

WHEREAS, oftentimes the victim-survivors of domestic violence are children who may suffer lifelong repercussions from the emotional or physical trauma of being exposed to domestic violence; and

WHEREAS, victim-survivors of domestic violence exhibit remarkable strength, courage, and resilience, but still face significant barriers in escaping abuse with many of them suffering in silence; and

WHEREAS, victim-survivors of domestic violence are not numbers but people - family members, neighbors, coworkers, friends - domestic violence affects all of us, and all of us must be part of the solution; and

WHEREAS, advocacy organizations across Nevada have and will continue to work tirelessly on behalf of victim-survivors, as they remain dedicated to providing a voice for victim-survivors and families, while increasing awareness across the Silver State; and

WHEREAS, Domestic Violence Awareness Month is a time to remember and honor all victim-survivors, raise awareness to help prevent and eliminate domestic violence and to recognize, celebrate and support the work of advocacy organizations in Nevada;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOE LOMBARDO, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF NEVADA, do hereby proclaim the month of October 2023 as

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH IN NEVADA