September 25, 2023
For Immediate Release
TREASURE VALLEY COMMUNITY AND LEADERS RALLY TO SUPPORT SURVIVORS ON THE EVE OF NATIONAL AWARENESS MONTH
October 2023 Marks 35th Year of Domestic Violence Awareness Month
Boise, ID – The WCA will host a pivotal press conference on Friday, September 29, at 10 a.m. to kick off Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) in October 2023. This important event will feature a consortium of victim service providers and community partners, including Advocates Against Family Violence, Faces of Hope and the Nampa Family Justice Center. All partners will provide outreach materials and program information. The press conference will occur at the Idaho Peace Officers’ Memorial, 700 S. Stratford Dr, Meridian, Idaho, and be livestreamed on WCA’s Facebook and YouTube channels.
The annual DVAM press conference includes signing a ceremonial proclamation to officially declare October 2023 as “Domestic Violence Awareness Month” in the Treasure Valley. Keynote speakers confirmed for the event include:
- Bea Black, CEO, WCA
- Rod Beck, Commissioner, Ada County
- A Survivor of Domestic Abuse from the Treasure Valley Community
- Shawn Sopoaga, Deputy Chief, Caldwell Police Department
- Shawn Rayne, Chief, Ada County Paramedics
- Kim Deugan, Executive Director, Advocates Against Family Violence
“The 35th anniversary of Domestic Violence Awareness Month adds special weight to our gathering this year,” says Black. “It’s essential for community members to join us in recognizing this milestone. Your presence and support make a world of difference in the lives of survivors, letting them know they are not alone. We’re not just raising awareness; we’re building a network of support, resources, and understanding to help survivors regain their freedom and heal.”
In 2022, Idaho experienced 10 domestic violence-related fatalities, according to a fact sheet from the Idaho Coalition. Additionally, law enforcement agencies in the state received reports of 5,940 incidents of intimate partner violence involving spouses, ex-spouses, common-law spouses, and those in dating relationships. As of September 2023, Idaho has already seen nine intimate partner-related fatalities. It is essential to note that many survivors of domestic violence do not report to law enforcement for various reasons.
“I’m deeply honored to recognize the critical role that law enforcement and first responders play in providing survivors immediate, often life-saving assistance. We mustn’t forget that domestic violence calls are among the most dangerous situations for first responders. Their commitment to serving victims and survivors is vital, and we are grateful for their courage,” said Black.
About the WCA
The WCA provides safety, healing, and freedom from domestic abuse and sexual assault. The WCA operates secure shelters and offers professional counseling, legal advocacy, crisis services, and case management to survivors of domestic and sexual abuse. For more information, visit www.wcaboise.org
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