Congress Backs 'Choose Respect Day' on October 1st to Combat Domestic Violence Crisis

This resolution is Congress putting its official weight behind a serious issue: the pervasive crisis of domestic violence in the United States. Essentially, it’s a formal nod of support for the goals and objectives of "Choose Respect Day," officially designating October 1st of every year to raise awareness and encourage action against intimate partner violence.

The Scope of the Problem, Laid Bare

Before getting to the awareness day itself, the resolution lays out some brutal facts that make it clear why this is necessary. We’re talking about up to 12 million people reporting intimate partner violence annually, which includes physical abuse, rape, or stalking. To put that in perspective, the text notes that roughly one in five women and one in seven men have experienced severe physical violence from a partner. For those of us juggling work and family, these numbers are a stark reminder that this isn’t a niche issue; it’s happening in our neighborhoods and workplaces.

The resolution specifically highlights that young women (ages 18 to 34) face the highest rates of victimization. It also points out the devastating, long-term ripple effects: survivors often deal with severe mental and physical health issues, and children who witness this abuse are 15 times more likely to be physically or sexually assaulted later in life. This isn’t just about safety; it’s about public health and breaking generational cycles of trauma, recognizing that domestic violence is also a massive factor in family homelessness.

What “Choose Respect Day” Actually Does

Since this is a resolution, it doesn't change any laws or appropriate new funding—it’s purely about recognition and encouraging cultural change. By officially supporting "Choose Respect Day," the Senate is urging everyone—from Federal, State, and local governments to private citizens and organizations—to recognize October 1st with official proclamations, activities, and educational events. Think of it as a national push to get everyone talking about respectful relationships and intolerance for abuse, reinforcing the message already promoted during October's Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

For the average person, this means that come October 1st, you might see more awareness campaigns, workplace education sessions, or local community events focused on promoting respectful relationships and supporting survivors. While it doesn't solve the problem overnight, this recognition is a crucial step in validating the experiences of survivors and acknowledging the risks taken by law enforcement who respond to these volatile calls every single day. It’s a formal statement that Congress sees the statistics, understands the severity, and is encouraging the country to actively choose respect.