Rally Urges Action to Keep Idaho Children Safe

Boise - More than a third of women who seek emergency care in U.S. hospital emergency rooms are sent there by an injury from a former spouse or dating partner. Since 2001, 19 infants and children have been victims of domestic violence-related homicides in Idaho, including an eight-month-old boy.

These are the sobering facts about domestic violence and children. They are the reason Idaho Senator Mike Crapo is joining with Idaho health professionals, Idaho mothers and children, leaders of the Idaho Coalition Against Sexual and Domestic Violence and others for a rally Tuesday afternoon on the steps of the Idaho Statehouse.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month and the "My Safe, Loving Home" campaign is being launched with the theme: "4 of 5 babies go home to a safe, loving family. Let's help number five."

The Idaho Coalition Against Sexual and Domestic Violence, which is organizing tomorrow's rally, notes recent studies show that 44% of domestic violence victims talked to someone about their abuse; 37% spoke to their health care provider. Health care and domestic violence professionals are in a unique position to work together to help victims of abuse and their children. The rally calls on all Idahoans to support speaking out to stop abuse and violence.

The rally begins at 1:30 on the front steps of the Idaho Statehouse. Speakers include: Idaho Senator Mike Crapo; Kelly Miller, Executive Director of the Idaho Coalition; Dr. Clarence Blea of the Idaho Perinatal Project; Dr. Michael Sexton of the CARES Program and Sherry Iverson, RN, Idaho Chapter of the American Academy of Physicians. Posters and onesies for Idaho infants will be distributed as part of Idaho Domestic Violence and Health Day, October 13, 2010.

Crapo recently co-sponsored new legislation in the U.S. Senate to maintain funding for women's shelters and violence assistance programs. Last week, the nation's largest violence awareness advocacy group, the National Network to End Domestic Violence, gave Crapo its top leadership award for his efforts to combat domestic violence and abuse.

"My Safe, Loving Home" Rally for Idaho Domestic Violence and Health Day
Tuesday, October 12
1:30 p.m. Idaho Statehouse Steps