HOUSTON, Texas – City and county leaders, law enforcement, and community organizations gathered Wednesday to launch a new domestic violence awareness initiative with the Texas Council on Family Violence and Policy.
“Today is a step towards making our communities, our city, and our county a place where no one must live in fear in their own home,” said councilmember Twila Carter.
Recommended Videos
Mayor John Whitmire, who spoke briefly at the event, described domestic violence as a “silent killer” and called for continued collaboration between all levels of government.
“Every level of government plays a role,” Whitmire said while underscoring the city’s commitment to prioritizing family violence cases and urging the need for more resources, including the proper funding of sexual assault nurse examiners and legislation for red flag laws to disarm abusers.
According to Harris County Precinct 4 Commissioner Lesly Brioners, Harris County is leading the state in domestic violence homicides. In response, Briones announced the launch of the “I’m Okay, Are You Okay” pilot program in Precinct 4, in partnership with the city of Houston, which will provide resources and education across 300 sites to those in need.
In Houston, Jessica Anderson, the Executive Assistant Chief of the Houston Police Department, said there is an increase in domestic violence reports, which now account for 10% of all reports in the city. She stressed the importance of early intervention and emphasized that domestic violence extends beyond physical harm, often involving emotional and financial abuse.
Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez also spoke about the tragic impact of domestic violence on children, stressing that many witness abuse at home, which oftentimes follow them into adulthood. He advocated for the passage of red flag laws and the expansion of gun surrender programs for domestic violence offenders.
Through this initiative, over 100 billboards across five counties will spread awareness about domestic violence. The billboards will be in English, Spanish and other languages.
“This is not just a private issue,” said Sheriff Gonzalez, “It affects the safety and well-being of our entire community.”
Do you know someone in need of help? KPRC 2 released the following features in “Breaking Free.”
Help is also available immediately if you need it through the following numbers:
- Houston Area Women’s Center: (713) 528-2121
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: (800) 799−7233
- If you are in immediate danger, call 911.