October is designated Domestic Violence Month to increase our awareness of the most common violent crime in our State. But, the effort to reduce domestic violence must be sustained throughout the entire year.

Last year, there were 84 deaths in Arizona from domestic violence, four more than in 2004. A number of factors have contributed to the increase, including increased use of methamphetamine, economic hardship, accessibility to firearms and the breakdown of the family unit.

Recently, I joined domestic violence experts and advocates at a statewide conference sponsored by the Arizona Coalition Against Domestic Violence. I spoke about protecting domestic violence victims in the polygamous communities of Colorado City and Hildale, an effort that has made great progress but still has a long way to go.

I can’t say enough about the compassion and dedication of the hundreds of professionals who are protecting and assisting domestic violence victims every day. Without their tireless efforts, Arizona’s domestic violence problem would be much worse. Our shelter network provides temporary housing and counseling for victims, as well as support groups for women and children. Despite modest increases in program capacity, women and children seeking shelter are still being turned away because of the lack of shelter space.

Ultimately, the key to reducing domestic violence is increased awareness and education. More people who care have to become proactive in bringing the problem out into the open.

In 2005, my Office joined forces with the Arizona Coalition Against Domestic Violence and the Arizona State Board of Cosmetology to launch CUT IT OUT. This common sense program draws on the cosmetology community's unique access to women by training salon professionals to recognize signs of domestic violence in their clients and assist victims in getting help.

The Arizona Coalition Against Domestic Violence is now conducting training sessions at Arizona's 47 cosmetology schools. The State Board of Cosmetology is distributing informational materials to the approximately 4,500 salons in Arizona. This year, Arizona’s CUT IT OUT program will focus on promoting an Adopt-a-Shelter program, encouraging salons to adopt a domestic violence shelter in their area.

One month is hardly adequate time to focus on domestic violence. But, October is a great time to recommit to reversing the trend. Not just in October, but all year, let’s be more aware of colleagues, relatives or neighbors who could be suffering silently. Pay attention to the warning signs and never be afraid to ask, "Is everything okay?"

Anyone in imminent danger should call 911 and ask for law enforcement protection. Even if you only suspect something is wrong, you can call the National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233) to discuss the situation, anonymously if you prefer. You'll never regret speaking up – you could regret doing nothing, forever.

Terry Goddard