REPORT TO COUNCIL
SUBJECT
Title
Proclamation of October 2025 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month
Report
BACKGROUND
In October 1981, the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence called for the first Day of Unity, as part of their efforts to end domestic violence in the United States and to connect advocates nationwide. In 1989, the first Domestic Violence Awareness Month was passed by the U.S. Congress as a national campaign dedicated to raising awareness about domestic violence.
Every October, cities across the nation join communities to uplift the voices and experiences of survivors. Domestic violence is a pervasive life-threatening crime that affects millions of individuals across the United States regardless of age, economic status, race, social orientation, gender identity, religion, ability, or education level. The National Domestic Violence Hotline provides confidential and anonymous support 24 hours a day, seven days a week by phone at 1-800-799-7233.
This year’s Domestic Violence Month theme from the Domestic Violence Awareness Project builds on the theme "With Survivors, Always." This theme allows us to explore what it means to be in partnership with survivors toward safety, support, and solidarity. It is both a love letter and a call to action for those committed to advocating for survivors’ needs and rights.
DISCUSSION
At the October 21, 2025, City Council meeting, the City of Santa Clara will proclaim October 2025 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Tejeswi Dodda, Self-Sufficiency Coordinator from Maitri will be present to accept the proclamation. Founded in 1991, Maitri is a free, confidential, nonprofit organization based in the Bay Area provide services and a toll-free phone line to support families and individuals, primarily from South Asia, facing domestic violence, emotional abuse, cultural alienation, or family conflict. To reach the Maitri toll-free helpline by phone, call 1-888-862-4874.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
This is an information report only and no action is being taken by the City Council and no environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act ("CEQA") is required.
FISCAL IMPACT
There is no fiscal impact to the City other than staff time.
PUBLIC CONTACT
Public contact was made by posting the Council agenda on the City’s official-notice bulletin board outside City Hall Council Chambers. A complete agenda packet is available on the City’s website and in the City Clerk’s Office at least 72 hours prior to a Regular Meeting and 24 hours prior to a Special Meeting. A hard copy of any agenda report may be requested by contacting the City Clerk’s Office at (408) 615-2220, email clerk@santaclaraca.gov or at the public information desk at any City of Santa Clara public library.
Staff
Reviewed by: Aimee Escobar, Management Analyst, City Manager’s Office
Approved by: Jovan D. Grogan, City Manager
ATTACHMENTS
1. Proclamation of October 2025 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month