October is
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH

October is Domestic Violence Month

I will never forget the tragic death of my former co-worker, Marina Ramos, in 2021—a senseless act of violence at the hands of her ex-husband. Though they were divorced, Marina and her ex shared custody of their 10-year-old daughter, which meant they had to interact unsupervised. It was during one of these exchanges that Marina lost her life. Her story is a heartbreaking reminder that domestic violence is real and ruthless, sparing no one.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a crucial time to shine a light on an issue often hidden behind closed doors. In 2023 alone, 205 Texans—179 women and 26 men—fell victim to intimate partner or stalking homicide, according to the Texas Council on Family Violence. These numbers are not just statistics; they represent lives lost and families shattered.

Domestic violence crosses every boundary—ethnic, religious, social, and economic—and affects women, men, and children alike. It takes many forms: physical, emotional, sexual, economic, psychological, and even technological abuse. The trauma is deep and sometimes fatal.

Ending this epidemic requires uniting law enforcement, community agencies, and faith-based groups to support survivors and hold perpetrators accountable. We must raise awareness every day, but especially now, in October, to honor those like Marina and fight for a safer future for all.