Domestic violence is an ongoing problem affecting millions of Americans every year. On average, approximately 20 individuals are abused each minute by their intimate partner, which totals around 10 million women and men over the course of year, according to information from the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence. Further, one in every four women will experience physical violence, sexual violence or stalking at some point in their lives, and for men, that figure is one in every nine.

No matter how you measure domestic violence, the figures are too high. This month, the Assembly Minority Conference joins millions of New Yorkers, advocacy groups and law enforcement officials working to prevent and mitigate this pervasive problem. Previously, our Conference hosted a series of task force forums aimed at identifying legislative solutions to help prevent domestic violence and hold abusers accountable.

The New York State Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NYSCADV) is one of many organizations working to support individuals facing domestic violence. To that end, they have called on New Yorkers to participate in a Week of Action beginning Monday, Oct. 17. During that week, NYSCADV will broadcast its “Purple Thursday” public awareness presentation on Thursday, Oct. 20 from 5 - 6 p.m. via Facebook Live. Additionally, for those in my district, the SAF Program, sponsored by Oswego County Opportunities, offers a variety of services available, including shelter for those in need.

The Domestic Violence Awareness Project is another group working to support and help prevent instances of domestic violence before they manifest. In conjunction with the National Resource Center on Domestic Violence (NRCDV), the project is sponsoring an awareness campaign featuring a webinar series, Twitter chat and research briefing. The theme of this year’s awareness campaign is centered on “humanity, wellness, joy, and connectedness for advocates, survivors, and all who work alongside us towards collective liberation.”

Unfortunately, domestic violence remains an issue requiring constant vigilance and attention. This month, I urge all New Yorkers to consider ways to support survivors. Awareness and prevention require a team effort. If you or anyone you know is struggling with domestic violence, help is available at The National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233/TTY 1-800-787-3224 or the StrongHearts Native Helpline at 1-844-762-8483.