DHS hosts walk to honor domestic violence victims, survivors

OKLAHOMA CITY -- In recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (DHS) will host a walk at 2:30 p.m. on Oct. 3, 2013 to honor victims and survivors of domestic violence and raise awareness about the serious impact domestic violence has on Oklahoma families.

The public is invited to join groups of walkers departing the Sequoyah Memorial Office Building, 2400 N. Lincoln Blvd., or the DHS Human Services Center, 2409 N. Kelley Ave., and converging at the south lawn of the Okahoma State Capitol. A brief remembrance ceremony will take place on the Capitol south lawn at 3 p.m. Participants are encouraged to wear purple, the color of domestic violence awareness.

Domestic violence continues to be a serious issue in Oklahoma. The Violence Policy Center ranks Oklahoma third in the nation for the rate of women murdered by men--the highest Oklahoma has ever been on the list.

Domestic abuse contributes to unsafe living conditions and the increased number of children taken into protective custody. Half of all child welfare cases include reported domestic abuse. DHS domestic violence awareness efforts are tied to reducing child abuse and improving the well-being of our state's children, as well as assisting domestic violence victims.

Resources for victims of domestic violence are available at okdhs.org/purpleribbon.

If you, or someone you know, is a victim of domestic violence, please call Safeline at 1-800-522-SAFE (1-800-522-7233). The toll-free, 24-hour, confidential hotline provides help and information for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking.

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