Executive Director's Comments About Domestic Violence Awareness Month

Spoken on 10/1/2021 Virtual Proclamation Signing Event- Jennfier F. Tofaeono, Executive Director, Am Samoa Alliance against Domestic & Sexual Violence
In 1989 US Congress passed Public Law 101-112 designating October of that year as National Domestic Awareness Month.  This month aims to honor those who have died due to domestic violence not only in American Samoa but across the United States and other US Territories.   
 
Our newspapers are littered with stories of violence, and it would be remiss of me not to mention cases in American Samoa that have been so extreme.   In 2020 the released story of a victims beating was so heinous and grievous it resulted in a community response. After hearing the stories, and witnessing the scars, the community came together to ASK for Justice for the Victim.  The beginning of 2021 was the horrific beating and murder of a young lady who was a mother, daughter, sister, relative and friend. I apologize if the mention of these stories triggers emotions of anger, or sadness for the victims for their family members, and the community.  Today, and for the rest of the month of October we honor victims who lost their lives to domestic violence.
But this month is also a time to celebrate those who have survived Domestic Violence. These are SURVIVORS who have walked through our doors and said, “My spouse or partner beats me, and I need help.” These are victims who have worked with local agencies to obtain health services, receive protection, or counseling to leave dangerous situations. During this month we recognize the stories of those who survived, and are on the pathway to healing.  We celebrate and honor their wins.  
 
 We also celebrate those who stand in unity to help victims.  It is a hard road to travel when you are a victim, AS WELL as an advocate.  As advocates you carry the stories of victims upon your hearts and feel their pain.  You want to help every victim, but realize you're limited in resources, maybe knowledge, and sometimes just purely wiped out.  Our advocates are those who help the victims find healing, and they need to be honored.  We recognize those who have previously worked in battling domestic violence in our community’s and we recognize those who continue the work today.   
 
 During this month I remind the community, domestic violence rears its ugly head in our homes, our relationships, our schools, workspaces, our church communities, and it surrounds us. It is important we strengthen our approach to eliminate violence through education about the tactics used by the perpetrators of violence.  We must gather to provide support for victims, even if you do not understand why they continue to go back.  Abusers use tactics of intimidation, emotional, isolation and many others to keep victims chained to them. I remind you to continue to support any victims that you may know or encounter. 
  
 Today I am grateful for all who are in attendance to witness the virtual signing of the Domestic Violence Proclamation. With a humble heart I say,  Fa’afetai, Fa’afetai tele lava.  As the Executive Director for the American Samoa Alliance, and the representative for our Board of Directors, led by Dr. Julia Foifua as our Chairwoman, Rep Sam Meleisea as our Vice Chair, and the entire Board of Directors,  I would like to offer our thanks to American Samoa Governor, High Chief Lemanu Peleti Palepoi Sialega Mauga, and Lt Governor Talauega Eleasalo Va’alele for standing and supporting us with extremely important issue.  I also would like to say a special thank you for our Congresswoman Uifa’atali Aumua Amata who provides federal support that helps us to fight and combat domestic violence.  Thank you for your voice and support in Washington DC. The Alliance cannot express enough our extreme gratefulness to have you in your space.