Senator Serrano Rolls Out Domestic Violence Awareness Month Social Media Campaign

José M. Serrano

September 30, 2015

Domestic Violence

Dear Neighbor,

As you may know, October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Throughout the month, I will be working to bring awareness to this very important issue, which plagues all segments of our population. Statistics show that nationwide, 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men will experience some form of domestic violence in their lifetime---this means that 20 people per minute are victims of domestic violence. Even more shocking, 2 million injuries and 1,300 deaths are caused each year as a direct result of domestic violence.

Last year, I hosted an episode of "Represent NYC," where I was joined by experts in the field of domestic violence. We discussed the issue in great detail and gave advice to the public about what they could do if they find themselves or someone they know in this troubling situation. You can watch the episode here.

This year, my office hopes to build on that important conversation by bringing the discussion online through social media. By using the power of social media, we will raise greater awareness about domestic violence throughout the entire month of October and beyond. Every day this month, I will be tweeting different facts, stories, articles and resources relating to Domestic Violence in an effort to spark a conversation and shine a light on the issue. Please follow me on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for updates and information about Domestic Violence and join my office in spreading the word about a problem that too often goes unmentioned. Let's all use the hashtag #NYSpeakUp throughout this month and beyond to speak up and raise awareness for victims and survivors of domestic violence. CLICK HERE to read the press release on this social media campaign.

Far too often victims of domestic violence are afraid to speak up and end up suffering in silence. In fact, according to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, only 25% of all domestic violence assaults on female victims are reported to the police. Whether victims are female, male, members of the LGBTQ community or undocumented immigrants, it does not matter. We must show all of our neighbors, friends, and family members who are victims of domestic violence that they are not alone. To that end, in order to give a voice to those who are affected by domestic violence, this social media campaign will act as a resource guide for individuals that have been affected by domestic violence. It is my hope that through the power of social media we can give a voice to those that often feel as if no one can hear them.

In addition to speaking up on the issue, my office will be providing direct services to individuals in need throughout the month of October. The Mayor's Office to Combat Domestic Violence will be partnering with us to host joint constituent hours in East Harlem and the South Bronx. The Mayor's Office to Combat Domestic Violence is a vital resource for our City, they're responsible overseeing the citywide delivery of domestic violence services, developing policies and programs, and working to increase awareness of domestic violence. If you or someone you know is need of any of these services, please view our schedule of events to find out or call or call my office for more information.

We will also be collaborating with the Urban Justice Center's Domestic Violence Project to host aFREE legal clinic on Thursday, October 22nd from 10 AM - 3 PM in our District Office (1916 Park Avenue Suite #202 New York, NY 10037). The FREE one-on-one legal consultations will cover issues relating to domestic violence, child support, child custody/visitations and orders of protection. This is an opportunity to learn more about the law and how it protects victims of domestic violence. An appointment is required, so please contact our office at (212) 828-5829 if you would like to see a lawyer.

If you are unable to attend any of the events or simply need more information about these services, please free to reach out to my staff. We are located at 1916 Park Avenue Suite #202 New York, NY 10037 and are open Monday-Friday 9 AM-5 PM or via phone at 212-828-5829. If you require immediate attention or know of a victim of domestic violence who needs help right away, please call the NYC Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-621-4673 or the NYS Hotline: 1-800-942-6906.

Yours in Service,

Jose M. Serrano

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