The Maricopa County Board of Supervisors has issued a proclamation naming October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month, in remembrance of the 61 Arizonans who lost their lives to domestic violence-related homicides last year and to support survivors of 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, District 5, highlighted 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.”
According to data from the National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey, nearly half of women and transgender or non-conforming individuals—and one in four men—will experience intimate partner violence during their lifetime. In 2024 alone, the Arizona Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence (ACESDV) received nearly 5,000 contacts via calls, chats, texts or emails through its helplines.
Of these contacts in 2024, most callers identified as female; some identified as male or did not report gender identity. ACESDV also reported that more than half (56%) of the state’s domestic violence-related deaths occurred within Maricopa County.
Vice Chair Kate Brophy McGee noted the impact behind these statistics: “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. 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.”
To mark Domestic Violence Awareness Month this October:
– The County Administration Building at 301 W. Jefferson St., Phoenix will be illuminated purple.
– All 14 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 for #ColorTheCounty.
– Supervisor Gallardo will host coffee and donuts along with resource distribution at Durango Campus on October 16th.
– A Unity Luncheon featuring survivor stories will take place on October 23rd at the County Administration Building.
Resources for those experiencing domestic violence are available at https://acesdv.org/.
Recent educational statistics show challenges facing Maricopa County youth as well. For example:
In the most recent school year (2023-24), about one-third (33.9%) of high school students passed the mathematics section of the ACT exam (https://www.azed.gov/). Additionally, among students in grades three through eight during this period, only about 36% passed math assessments (https://www.azed.gov/).
