[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 44, Number 39 (Monday, October 6, 2008)]
[Page 1287]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 8299--National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, 2008

 October 1, 2008

 By the President of the United States

 of America

 A Proclamation

    Our Nation has a moral obligation to work to prevent domestic 
violence and address its brutal and destructive effects. During National 
Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we underscore our commitment to 
helping individuals across our country who face such devastating 
violence.
    My Administration remains dedicated to eradicating domestic violence 
and helping victims find the compassion, comfort, and healing they need. 
In 2003, I announced the creation of the Family Justice Center 
Initiative to help local communities provide comprehensive services at 
one location for victims of domestic violence. In 2006, I was proud to 
sign legislation that reauthorized the Violence Against Women Act to 
improve criminal justice responses to domestic violence, sexual assault, 
and stalking. The Department of Justice's Domestic Violence Transitional 
Housing Assistance Program also offers victims of violence counseling 
and transitional housing services so they can escape the cycle of abuse.
    During this month, we rededicate ourselves to protecting vulnerable 
members of our society and ensuring domestic abusers are punished to the 
full extent of the law. We encourage victims of domestic violence and 
their families to seek assistance through Family Justice Centers and the 
National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE. Together, we can 
help heal hearts and build a culture in which all Americans can pursue 
their dreams and realize the great promise of our Nation.
     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 2008, as 
National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. I urge all Americans to 
reach out to victims of domestic violence and take action to make ending 
domestic violence a national priority.
     In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this first day of 
October, in the year of our Lord two thousand eight, and of the 
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
third.
                                                George W. Bush

 [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 8:45 a.m., October 3, 
2008]

Note: This proclamation was published in the Federal Register on October 
6.