Wing commander signs Domestic Violence Awareness, Prevention proclamation

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Corey M. Pettis
  • 18th Wing Public Affairs
KADENA AIR BASE, Japan --  Brig. Gen. Barry Cornish, 18th Wing commander, signed a proclamation supporting the declaration of October as Domestic Violence Awareness and Prevention Month, Sept. 28.

The president of the United States declared that October is Domestic Violence Awareness and Prevention Month, a time dedicated to domestic violence education, awareness and prevention. This marks the 28th year that the country aims to raise awareness about preventing domestic violence.

"We want our community to be aware so people no longer have to live in fear," said Chazzie Valverde, Family Advocacy program assistant. "We want everyone to live in a safe, violence free environment."

In most cases of domestic violence, somebody knows what is going on and stays silent. The goal of this awareness month is to encourage people to step up if they know something is not right. 

"Ninety-six percent of fatalities that occur from domestic violence over the last five years, people knew about the issues that were going on between the couple," said Gena Schneider, Family Advocacy outreach manager. "If people know, then we need to empower them to intervene and help couples in those relationships get help."

To some people, Domestic Violence Awareness and Prevention Month only applies to women and children. Though many cases are, men can also be victims of domestic violence.

"We want people to be aware that it is not just females that are victims of assault," Valverde said. "Men and women both suffer from violence."

There are many avenues available to stop domestic violence from occurring. Kadena Family Advocacy offers programs to help couples cope with stress at home and at work. They offer classes such as anger management and stress management. 

For more information, contact Family Advocacy at DSN: 315-634-0433.