FIRST REGULAR SESSION
95TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY
Whereas, domestic violence negatively impacts Missouri families, both physically and emotionally, resulting in needless death and injury; and
Whereas, according to the Missouri Uniform Crime Reporting Program:
(1) There were 37,245 reported acts of domestic violence in 2007;
(2) There were 35 homicides related to domestic violence in 2007;
(3) There have already been 3,119 reported acts of domestic violence from January 1 to March 16, 2009; and
Whereas, one of the main contributors of domestic violence is lack of knowledge of its causes; and
Whereas, many victims are unaware of resources that could help them avoid or get out of a domestic violence situation; and
Whereas, on August 29, 2006, Amanda Kay Cates, a police officer and young woman, ten days past her 26th birthday became a fatality of domestic violence; and
Whereas, Amanda, who dedicated herself to the citizens of the State of Missouri and especially to children and young adults as a school resource officer, can no longer speak to and on behalf of those she worked and cared for; and
Whereas, in order to bring attention to domestic violence and encourage all Missouri citizens to educate themselves and be willing to openly discuss and address the issue of domestic violence in our State, time should be set aside for remembrance of all victims of domestic violence:
Now, therefore, be it resolved that we, the members of the Missouri House of Representatives, Ninety-fifth General Assembly, hereby recognize October 14, 2009, as "Amanda Kay Cates Day" in Missouri to remember all victims of domestic violence; and
Be it further resolved that the Missouri House of Representatives encourages all citizens of the State of Missouri to observe the day through activities which will increase awareness of domestic violence and educate the public.
•