Gov. Cox declares October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month in Utah

Editor’s note: A previous version of this story did not mention that Gov. Cox’s declaration was made in partnership with Altabank. It has been updated to reflect their role. 

SALT LAKE CITY — Gov. Spencer Cox has just designated October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month for the state of Utah. The declaration was made in partnership with Altabank.

The official declaration was signed by Gov. Cox and Lieutenant Governor Deidre M. Henderson. Lt. Gov. Henderson publicly announced it via X Tuesday afternoon. 

In his declaration, the governor drew on a study published by Utah State University that found that 33.6% of women in Utah experience violence — including physical and sexual — or stalking in their lifetime.

Gov. Cox and Lt. Gov. Henderson express a hope that this measure will “underscore the urgency of this issue and emphasize the need for continued collaboration and action.”

According to Altabank, domestic violence is an important pillar of charitable contribution.

“A problem that impacts our entire community requires a collective effort to make things better,” said Altabank CEO Terry Grant. “Uniting business and government leadership to shine a light on this crucial issue is an important step in addressing domestic violence in Utah. We applaud those who serve victims and seek to amplify their efforts not just this month, but year-round, year in and year out.”

Related:

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• The Supreme Court upholds a gun control law intended to protect domestic violence victims
• Women ‘need to speak out’: Gaby Ramos killing spurs sister to take up domestic violence cause