[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 119, 109th Congress, 1st Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
PROCLAMATION 7938--SEPT. 30, 2005
Proclamation 7938 of September 30, 2005
National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, 2005
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
Domestic violence is a great evil and an offense against human dignity
that shatters lives and robs children of their innocence. Where it
occurs, homes are transformed into places of danger and despair. During
National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we renew our commitment to
preventing domestic violence.
We are making progress in the fight against violence in the home. Over
the past decade, the domestic violence rate has declined by an estimated
59 percent. But much work remains to be done. My Administration remains
committed to preventing domestic abuse by supporting victims and
punishing offenders. We have secured historic levels of funding for the
Violence Against Women programs at the Department of Justice, presided
over an increase in Federal prosecutions for crimes of violence against
women, and implemented a program to help fund transitional housing for
victims fleeing domestic abuse.
To increase access to comprehensive support and services for victims of
domestic violence, in 2003 I announced the creation of the Family
Justice Center Initiative. These centers bring together police officers,
attorneys, counselors, doctors, victims' advocates, chaplains, and
others so that domestic violence victims can more easily find the help
and support they need. The Department of Justice has awarded over $20
million to support the creation of 15 Family Justice Centers across the
country, and several of these centers have already opened their doors
and are making a difference in victims' lives.
Faith-based and community organizations are also making vital
contributions in the effort to combat domestic violence. These
organizations are fostering an environment where victims can step out of
the shadows and get the help and care they need. Through initiatives
like the Faith-Based and Community Organization Rural Pilot Program and
the Safe and Bright Futures for Children Initiative, the Departments of
Justice and Health and Human Services are providing funding to support
these organizations in their life-changing work.
I appreciate all those who work to end domestic violence and to protect
vulnerable members of our society. By working together, we continue to
build a society that respects the life and dignity of every person.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of
America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and
laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim October

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2005 as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. I urge all Americans
to reach out to help victims of domestic violence and help to make
ending domestic violence a national priority.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirtieth day of
September, in the year of our Lord two thousand five, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and
thirtieth.
GEORGE W. BUSH