• 27 precent of rural women experiencing domestic violence also experience sexual assault


• Because many rural newspapers publish arrest logs and protective order requests, many rural victims of domestic violence do not seek protective orders out of
  fear that the entire community will find out.


• 1 in 12 women and 1 in 45 men are stalked at least once in their lifetime.


• One in six boys will be sexually abused by age 16.


• Women ages 16 to 24 experience the highest per capita rates of intimate violence - 20 per 1,000 women.


• 54 percent of all rape cases occur before victims reach 18 years of age

Now that we know some of the dire statistics, what can be done to raise awareness?

First, acknowledge the problem as the epidemic it is. The White House and the Obama campaign both put out statements on Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

During this month, we rededicate ourselves to protecting vulnerable members of our society and ensuring domestic abusers are punished to the full extent of the law. We encourage victims of domestic violence and their families to seek assistance through Family Justice Centers and the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE. Together, we can help heal hearts and build a culture in which all Americans can pursue their dreams and realize the great promise of our Nation. --George W. Bush