Mesa Domestic Violence Awareness Night Oct. 2 Will Honor Survivors and Remember Victims

Mesa Domestic Violence Awareness Night Oct. 2 Will Honor Survivors and Remember Victims

As part of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the City of Mesa is hosting Domestic Violence Awareness Night on Thursday, Oct. 2 from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at The Post, 26 N. Macdonald, to honor survivors and those lost to domestic violence.

"Domestic violence impacts families and communities across Mesa. This event raises awareness, supports survivors and reinforces our commitment to stopping abuse and building a safer City for everyone," said Mayor Mark Freeman.

The most recent information from the Arizona Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence found 88 deaths caused by family violence in 2023. This included 74 adults, 10 children and four pets.

Nationally, 41% of women and 26% of men experienced violence or stalking by an intimate partner during their lifetime. Data from U.S. crime reports suggest about one in five homicide victims is killed by an intimate partner.

"Prosecuting domestic violence crimes and bringing justice to victims of domestic violence is a top priority in our office. Domestic Violence Awareness Month is an important reminder that everyone must help put an end to this problem in our community," said City Prosecutor Paul Hawkins.

Representatives from more than 20 agencies will have displays and information about domestic violence awareness, including access to resources and services for victims.

The event will feature remarks from Councilmember Julie Spilsbury, Mesa Police Chief Dan Butler, Assistant City Prosecutor Wayne Cheney and Laura Pahules, a survivor of domestic violence and founder of Control Alt Delete, a nonprofit organization that helps survivors of domestic violence escape their abusers.

The program will conclude with a candlelight vigil featuring purple candles and a performance by the Mesa Community College Vocal Jazz Ensemble. Everyone attending is encouraged to wear purple in solidarity with domestic violence victims.

Mesa's Domestic Violence Awareness Night is hosted by the Mesa City Prosecutor's Office, Mesa Police Department and Mesa Family Advocacy Center, which coordinates resources to reduce the trauma of physical and sexual abuse.

For information and resources about domestic violence, visit https://www.MesaAZ.gov/DVawareness.