[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 158 (Thursday, October 12, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1935]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 TRIBUTE TO DOMESTIC ASSAULT RAPE ELIMINATION SERVICES AND THE WOMEN'S 
                             INTERVAL HOUSE

                                 ______


                          HON. DAVID E. BONIOR

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 12, 1995

  Mr. BONIOR. Mr. Speaker, this evening, October 12, 1995, the Domestic 
Assault Rape Elimination Services [DARES] of Port Huron, MI, and the 
Women's Interval Home of Sarnia, Canada are sponsoring the Third Annual 
International Candelight March and Vigil. For the past 3 years these 
two organizations have sponsored this event to highlight the issue of 
domestic violence.
  We usually think of the family as a safe haven from what is sometimes 
described as an uncaring and cruel outside world. Sadly, the family is 
one of the most dangerous places for far too many women and children. 
As many as 6 million women are victimized by domestic violence in the 
United States each year. Some 1,500 are killed annually. Thirty percent 
of women murdered in the United States die sat the hands of a close 
friend or family member. These disturbing statistics illustrate the 
need for our society to face and address this important issue.
  The DARES shelter services of St. Clair County, MI, and the Women's 
Interval Home of Sarnia, ON have been addressing this issue and 
compiling their own set of impressive statistics. DARES provided safe 
haven to nearly 800 adults and children for over 3,800 nights in the 
past year. The Women's Interval Home provided help to over 1,100 adults 
and children for over 3,400 nights. Unfortunately, domestic violence 
knows no international borders. However, the people who work and 
support the DARES shelter service and the Women's Interval Home remain 
committed to meeting the needs of those who have no place to turn, 
regardless of nationality.
  There are probably as many myths as there are causes surrounding the 
nature of domestic abuse. One thing is for sure though, we must 
recognize this issue as a major social problem and support both the 
victims and those who provide assistance. I applaud these two groups as 
they work to treat, prevent, and educate people about domestic abuse.
  We all look forward to a day when the needs for DARES and the Women's 
Interval Home will be unnecessary; but until then, I strongly support 
their efforts. As the organizers prepare for the Third Candlelight 
Vigil and March, I urge my colleagues to join me in working toward a 
future where everyone can feel safe in their home and neighborhood.

                          ____________________