Local citizens and officials marked the start of Domestic Violence Awareness Month with a luncheon and speech at First United Methodist Church.
Jennifer Thompson, program director for the Georgia Commission on Family Violence, asked attendees to have compassion for those who choose to stay with the person who has abused them.
“That’s their way of surviving,” Thompson said. “Leaving is the most dangerous time for a victim of domestic abuse, because the perpetrator sees that they’re losing control…It’s all about educating boys and girls when they are young that violent behavior, especially in a home, is not acceptable.”
Chris Marsh, executive director of Halycon Home, a shelter for domestic violence victims in Thomas County, said her agency is in its 15th year and offers services to dozens of people in Decatur County each year, as well as four other counties.
County Administrator Gary Breedlove read a proclamation from Decatur County Commissioners asking citizens to recognize the awareness month by supporting local efforts supporting victims of domestic violence.
Larry Nichols of Red Hills Counseling, who is also the chairman of Decatur County Citizens Against Domestic Violence, organized the event in conjunction with FUMC Rev. Randy Mosley, who offered to host the kickoff rally at his church.
A candlelight vigil in remembrance of victims of domestic violence across Georgia will be held on Thursday, Oct. 11 at 7 p.m. in the J.O. Smith Activities Building at First United Methodist Church.