Orland Park Proclaims October Domestic Violence Awareness Month

ORLAND PARK, IL — On Monday evening's Board of Trustees meeting in Orland Park, both the mayor and trustees proclaimed October 2020 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

The Unites States Department of Justice says domestic violence is a serious violent crime, including both physical and emotional abuse. This abuse if frequently hidden from public view and many victims suffer in silence, too afraid to speak up.

The proclamation states domestic violence does not discriminate and happens in all communities, regardless of age, race, disability, gender identity or socioeconomic status. The document also states considering medical expenses, lost productivity, legal costs and property loss and damage, domestic violence costs victims nearly $82,000 over their lifetime and collectively costs the United States $3.6 trillion.

At the board meeting, the Crisis Center for South Suburbia's Special Events and Engagement Manager, Lisa Molloy, received the proclamation from Mayor Keith Pekau. Molloy also took to the podium to speak about the organization and what they do.

The crisis center took to Facebook to thank the mayor for the proclamation and said that this act will challenge residents to become more involved in spreading awareness of domestic violence.

Pekau said research shows that by creating communities for people to connect, support and care for one another will reduce domestic violence incidences.

"Every day in Orland Park, individuals and organizations play a part in supporting people impacted by domestic violence, providing services including therapeutic, legal, educational, housing, advocacy, and medical services," Pekau said in the proclamation.

The proclamation said village officials "Urge all residents to become involved in efforts to prevent and respond to domestic violence and recognize the impact of domestic violence in our community."

Trustees praised the recognition during board comments on Monday night. Trustee Cynthia Nelson Katsenes thanked the Crisis Center for South Suburbia representative, who came to the meeting to discuss events and statistics on domestic violence.

"I would encourage all to go on their Facebook page and support the organization in any way they can," Katsenes said. "It's a wonderful organization that helps a lot of people, a lot of women and a lot of families."

The crisis center's 24-hour hotline can be reached at 708-429- SAFE (7233).