[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 41, Number 40 (Monday, October 10, 2005)]
[Pages 1484-1485]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 7938--National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, 2005

 September 30, 2005

 By the President of the United States

 of America

 A Proclamation

    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

[[Page 1485]]

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 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

 [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 9:56 a.m., October 4, 
2005]

Note: This proclamation was published in the Federal Register on October 
5. This item was not received in time for publication in the appropriate 
issue.