Dear Editor,
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a time when every person should consider what she or he can do to help end the epidemic of domestic violence that plagues our county and our nation.
The statistics are staggering. In the United States, nearly one-third of American women (31 percent) report being physically or sexually abused by a husband or boyfriend at some point in their lives. Each year, over 1300 women – more than three women per day – are murdered by their husbands or boyfriends in this country, according to the U.S. Department of Justice.
Lincoln County has long been at the top of the list of counties in New Mexico with the highest rate of domestic violence, per capita. That is a shameful thing to be known for.
As your local State Representative, I am committed to working to end domestic violence. During every legislative session, we work hard to ensure that funding continues to those most vulnerable in Lincoln County and the rest of the state. On the Judiciary Committee in the New Mexico legislature, we frequently consider potential legislation that may alleviate the burden of domestic violence in our communities.
I have an established relationship in supporting Help End Abuse for Life (HEAL), located in Ruidoso Downs, and strongly believe in their exceptional services to survivors of domestic violence and their children.
Domestic violence is everyone’s business. Abuse affects everyone in our community and we must all come together to stop this epidemic.
If you are a victim of domestic violence, help is available. In our community, call HEAL at 866-378-3775. This is a toll-free crisis hotline that is answered 24 hours a day, every day of the year.
Please feel free to contact me. I always enjoy hearing from you. My email address is
zachjcook@gmail.com.
Sincerely,
Zach Cook
State Representative
