Hurley Statement on Domestic Violence Awareness Month

CHICAGO – October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and State Rep. Fran Hurley issued the following statement on the importance of supporting domestic abuse survivors:

“Domestic violence exists in many forms, that’s why it’s so important that we as a community and a state come together to show support for survivors and open up our dialogue about this issue,” Hurley said. “Men, women, children and people from all walks of life can experience domestic violence.”

Hurley has been a longtime advocate for domestic violence survivors. She was a chief co-sponsor on House Bill 3485 which empowers those experiencing domestic violence to issue ‘Hope Cards’ to close friends, family and coworkers to make them aware of their abuser. These cards hold vital information about the order of protection including a photograph of the accused, case number, active dates of the order of protection and other pertinent information. Holders of Hope Cards will be able to notify school administrators, family members or coworkers who need to be aware of the person’s order of protection. 

“These cards will prove critical in our collective efforts to open a dialogue about domestic violence. If someone has not experienced this, then someone they know may be a survivor. By creating channels of communication in our friend groups, families, and other social groups we can better support survivors,” Hurley said. “This is a small step in our broader efforts to curb domestic violence in our communities, and I will keep pushing for more support and resources for domestic violence survivors in Springfield.”