Choose Respect Day 2026

WHEREAS, Alaska struggles with an epidemic of domestic violence and sexual assault, and violence exists in many of Alaska's homes and communities, and threatens the futures of many of our children, their families, our culture and our state; and

WHEREAS, all Alaskans have a responsibility to courageously fight against the reality of violence and to lead Alaska to a brighter, safer future; and

WHEREAS, "Choose Respect Day" on October 1 was designated by Congress in 2022 as part of a national effort to change the culture surrounding the acceptance of violence against women in our local communities, in our state and in our nation; and

WHEREAS, the Commemoration of "Choose Respect Day" and the enactment of the Choose Respect Act of 2022, passed by Congress, had its bearings in Alaska and was promoted by Alaskan leaders to prevent and discourage all violence against women, such as domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking by shifting the focus onto the harmful attitudes, perceptions, and beliefs of individuals who have committed or are likely to commit crimes against women; and

WHEREAS, the Act also intends to motivate victims of violence to pursue assistance through methods identified as the most effective based upon the most recent evidence, such as obtaining legal representation and informing the public about resources that are available to them; and

WHEREAS, the Choose Respect Day proclamation encourages all Alaskan leaders and citizens to be the change in our culture and to organize a virtual, statewide "Choose Respect" rally where civic leaders, tribal leaders, community organizations and faith-based partners are invited to speak on the importance of "Choosing Respect" in our families, communities, in Alaska and in our nation; and

WHEREAS, celebrating Choose Respect Day on October 1 appropriately marks the first day of Domestic Awareness Month which is held in October every year and Alaskans are encouraged to wear purple on October 1st and throughout the month in recognition of survivors.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Mike Dunleavy, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF ALASKA, do hereby proclaim October 1, 2026 as:

Choose Respect Day

and ask that all Alaskans join with me in standing up against all violence. Working together, we can make a difference and create a culture of respect in our state.

Dated: October 1, 2026