The Multnomah County Board of Commissioners convened on October 31, 2024, to proclaim October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month, emphasizing the importance of community support and awareness in combating domestic violence. The meeting began with a motion from Commissioner Stegman, seconded by Commissioner Broom Edwards, to approve the proclamation.

Commissioner Stegman highlighted the significance of collective voices in raising awareness about domestic violence, noting that it often thrives in silence and isolation. She emphasized the theme for this year, "heal, hold, and center," which aims to embrace diverse cultural healing practices and prioritize the voices of marginalized survivors.

Alex Sanchez, Senior Manager of the Domestic Violence Coordination Office, presented data illustrating the profound impact of domestic violence on survivors, particularly in the context of rising living costs. He noted that financial abuse is prevalent in over 90% of domestic violence cases, with significant financial repercussions for survivors.

Rebecca Liedeker from the Victims Assistance Program expressed gratitude for the advocates and community members supporting survivors through the legal system. She underscored the importance of collaboration among various organizations to ensure survivors receive the necessary support and protection.

Tiffany Thomas Geiss, representing Bradley Angle, spoke about the unique challenges faced by Black and LGBTQ+ survivors, urging the commissioners to consider these factors in policy-making and resource allocation. Betsy Glickman from Call to Safety shared statistics on the organization's extensive outreach, highlighting the critical role of crisis support services in the community.

The proclamation itself outlined the pervasive nature of domestic violence, affecting individuals across various demographics and emphasizing the need for systemic change to support survivors. It called for continued commitment from the county to enhance resources and policies that protect and empower survivors.

Commissioner Marvin, reflecting on her tenure, stressed the need for increased funding and support for domestic violence services, advocating for a more robust response to the needs of survivors. She called for a doubling of investments in these critical services to better address the ongoing challenges faced by survivors in Multnomah County.

The meeting concluded with a collective commitment to continue raising awareness and improving support systems for survivors of domestic violence, reinforcing the message that community involvement is essential in creating a safer environment for all.