Miami, Fla. – Yesterday, Lieutenant Governor Jeanette Nuñez visited Florida International University to host a Domestic Violence Awareness panel about the various types of domestic violence, its impact and prevention efforts.

The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence reports that on average, nearly 20 people per minute, or 10 million a year, are physically abused by an intimate partner in the United States.

“For far too long, domestic violence has been an abuse hidden in plain sight, and yesterday’s discussion was not only proof that no one is immune, but it was a step forward in aiding victims suffering in silence,” said Lt. Governor Nuñez. “Our administration is committed to providing support resources, intervention programs and counseling services for those in need.”

“I am honored to join my voice in support of engaging, educating and empowering individuals on such an important topic,” said Miami-Dade School Board Member Susie V. Castillo. “Our schools are the first line of defense in ensuring that we put an end to domestic violence. As a Miami-Dade School Board Member, I will continue advocating for eradicating all types of abuse with the legal and preventive services discussed here today.”

In commemoration of National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the two-hour long panel brought together key leaders, advocates, renowned service providers and survivors including: Miami-Dade School Board Member, Susie V. Castillo; Senior Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs at FIU, Dr. Elizabeth Bejar; Veronica Rubio; Chief of Targeted Services Bureau in the Miami-Dade County Community Action and Human Services, Ivon Mesa; and Family and Community Services Director for the Department of Children and Families, Lesline Anglade-Dorleans.

Seeking to serve as a resource for local and state leaders, this discussion is vital for how best to tackle this growing problem, as well as how to support victims of abuse. Moreover, the panel emphasized the critical partnerships and legislative efforts aimed at ending domestic violence.

“Governor DeSantis and I stand in support of these victims, and we seek to shift power back to them by ensuring laws are enforced and offenders are prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” Nuñez added.

To report an incident or for more information, contact 1(800) 500-1119 or visit www.myflfamilies.com/service-programs/domestic-violence/.

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