North Carolina Council for Women Host Candlelight Vigil to Raise Awareness for Domestic Violence | Eastern North Carolina Now

Press Release:

    Raleigh, N.C.     As part of Governor Pat McCrory and First Lady Ann McCrory's efforts to increase awareness for North Carolina domestic violence victims, the N.C. Council for Women joined nearly 100 advocates for a candlelight vigil on the State Capitol grounds tonight in remembrance of victims of domestic violence, families and friends.

    "We will continue to work together to break the cycle of domestic violence and its impact on North Carolina families, children, schools and in the workplace," said Governor McCrory. "That's why Ann and I have called on all North Carolinians to observe October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month and ask that we continue to work to put an end to not just physical abuse, but also the emotional and mental forms that domestic violence can take."

    Kathryn Johnston, Secretary of the Department of Administration, addressed the crowd to read Governor McCrory's Domestic Violence Month proclamation. She also discussed the McCrory administration's initiatives to help victims of domestic violence, particularly with transportation and the electronic filing of restraining orders.

    "We are here today to bring awareness to this evil and to honor the lives of the 52 victims already taken from us this year in North Carolina," Secretary Johnston said. "I also want to thank Governor McCrory for his unwavering support and strength to stand up for issues that protect the safety of women and children. And his commitment to give victims the hope they need to face tomorrow and to honor those victims who were not given that chance."

    Other speakers on hand for the event were domestic violence survivor Christine Hewlin, Executive Director of the N.C. Council for Women Gale McKoy Wilkins, Charmain of the Domestic Violence Commission Charles Campbell II and Bishop Phillip Smith.

    The McCrory administration is dedicated to raising awareness for domestic violence and support services through the actions of the Governor's Crime Commission, the N.C. Council for Women and the N.C. Department of Public Safety.

    The first lady is an honorary board member of the N.C. Council for Women and the honorary chair of Domestic Violence Awareness Month in North Carolina.

    Governor McCrory proclaimed October as North Carolina Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The proclamation can be found here.

• Contact: McCrory Communications
•     govpress@nc.gov