To the Editor:

Domestic violence is a costly and pervasive problem here in Ossining and nationwide. Every day in this country, women are threatened, abused and killed by men who promised to love them.

But there is good news on this issue. A new poll commissioned by the Family Violence Prevention Fund finds that most men are getting involved. Increasingly, men say they are willing to help raise awareness, support victims, and promote healthy, violence-free relationships.

In the poll, 56 percent of men – and 60 percent of those age 18 to 34 – said they have reason to believe a member of their immediate or extended family, a close friend or acquaintance has been in a domestic violence or sexual assault situation. More than half (57 percent) think they can personally make at least some difference in preventing violence and 73 percent think they can make at least some difference in promoting healthy, respectful, non-violent relationships.

And, the poll finds, men are taking action. Two in three fathers have talked to their sons about the importance of healthy, violence-free relationships, and 63 percent have talked to their daughters. Fifty-five percent of men surveyed say they have talked to boys who are not their sons.

That’s real progress, and reason for great hope. So, in this season when we celebrate Father’s Day and honor the men in our lives, let’s thank those who are helping stop violence and encourage others to do so as well. It’s our best hope for a future in which many more women and children are safe.

Sincerely,

Kenneth Donato, Chief of Police
Ossining Town Police Department
507 North State Road
Briarcliff, New York 10510
Phone: 914-762-6007
Fax: 914-432-8274
Email: KDonato@OssiningTownPolice.com

Board Member
Northern Westchester Shelter
PO Box 203, Pleasantville, New York 10570
24-Hour Hotline: 888-438-8700
Administrative Office: 914-747-0828
www.NorthernWestchesterShelter.org

The Northern Westchester Shelter
NY State Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence

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