Raising awareness of domestic violence

In many parts of Illinois, domestic violence remains a problem. Alton police, for example, have responded to more than 500 reports of domestic violence in 2017 alone. In Madison County, it is estimated that about 1,400 emergency orders of protection were filed, coming out to an average of five each and every day. To combat incidents of domestic violence, the Alton Police Chief and his wife started the annual Domestic Violence Awareness Walk.

The Domestic Violence Awareness Walk is an annual event that was began after a 30-year-old woman was killed and dismembered by her boyfriend. At the first annual event, just 30 people were involved. The event grew to 100 people. It raises money by charging walkers $10 each. The funds are distributed to different organizations that help curb domestic violence and provide resources for those attempting to escape domestic violence.

The 2017 Domestic Violence Awareness Walk was on Oct. 12 and started at the Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Alton. At the start of the event, the police chief, the mayor of Alton and a journalist for Advantage News gave speeches. The walk involved community members, activists, and survivors of domestic violence.

When domestic violence occurs, some victims stay silent due to fear or even shame. However, remaining in abusive relationships can be harmful or even lethal, especially if the violence or abuse continues to escalate. Legal issues of this nature can be challenging, so a family law attorney could assist clients who are attempting to leave unsafe or abusive relationships by seeking protective orders on their behalf.