The Maricopa County Board of Supervisors has issued a proclamation marking October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month, in recognition of the 61 Arizonans who lost their lives to domestic violence-related homicides last year and others affected by partner abuse.
“Domestic violence is an epidemic in the United States and it affects people in all communities, irrespective of social or economic status,” said Chairman Thomas Galvin, District 2. “Calling for an end to all forms of violence and abuse in relationships is our shared responsibility, including support for organizations that help survivors start a new chapter filled with hope.”
Supervisor Debbie Lesko, District 4, shared her personal experience: “I not only survived domestic violence, but have thrived ever since. I never dreamt that I would go from struggling to afford rent and keep my daughter safe to serving in Congress and flying on Air Force One. To all those struggling with abuse, there is hope. If I can get out of that type of terrible situation, so can you.”
Supervisor Steve Gallardo emphasized the importance of seeking help: “Several of the domestic violence survivors I’ve spoken with had one main regret: not asking for help sooner. Leaving an abusive relationship is dangerous and overwhelming, but please remember that you are not alone. There are a number of community organizations that want to protect you, guide you through next steps, and help you get the fresh start you deserve.”
Data from the National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey indicates that nearly half of women and transgender or non-conforming individuals—and one in four men—will face some form of intimate partner violence during their lives. In 2024 alone, the Arizona Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence (ACESDV) received nearly 5,000 contacts through calls, chats, texts, or emails on its helplines.
Of these calls in 2024, most were from female callers; however, some male callers also reached out for support while many did not report their gender identity. ACESDV reported that more than half (56%) of Arizona’s domestic violence-related deaths occurred within Maricopa County.
“When you look into the data behind domestic violence, the fact is that each number represents a human life, often an entire family, that has been seriously impacted by domestic abuse,” stated Vice Chair Kate Brophy McGee from District 3. “Every one of us must condemn abuse, reach out to those locked in abusive relationships, and model healthy, empowering relationships.”
Supervisor Mark Stewart from District 1 added: “Domestic violence has no place in Maricopa County. We stand with survivors and remain committed to supporting safe, strong families.”
Throughout October several initiatives will take place across Maricopa County:
– The County Administration Building at 301 W. Jefferson St., Phoenix will be lit purple.
– All county library branches will collect donations such as toiletries and non-perishable food items for local shelters throughout October.
– On October 16th residents are encouraged to wear purple as part of Wear Purple Day using #ColorTheCounty online.
– Supervisor Gallardo will host coffee events at Durango Campus on October 16th providing resources for county employees.
– A Unity Luncheon on October 23rd at the administration building will feature survivor stories and information from community organizations.
Resources for those experiencing domestic violence can be found at https://acesdv.org/.
In related educational news about Maricopa County students’ academic performance:
Recent results show challenges in both mathematics and English proficiency among students:
– Over sixty percent (62.9%) of students in grades three through eight did not pass the mathematics section during the 2022-23 AASA assessment period according to Arizona Department of Education.
– Sixty-five percent (65%) of high schoolers failed the mathematics section on the ACT during the same year (source).
– More than half (57.2%) failed English sections on AASA assessments (source).
– Similarly high rates were seen among high schoolers failing English sections on ACT exams (source).
However,
– About one-third (33.9%) passed mathematics on ACTs in high school for 2023–24 (source).
– Thirty-six percent (36%) passed math among third-to-eighth graders on AASA assessments during this period (source).
For additional support regarding domestic violence or academic resources visit relevant county websites.
