December 8, 2008

The Domestic Violence Memorial Tree ceremony in Uptown Charlotte will commemorate the 69 lives lost due to domestic violence in the State of North Carolina this year.   A ribbon for Roschelle Woyee, 19, who was tragically killed last Thursday will also be included.

The memorial will take place: 
Tuesday, December 9
6 p.m. – 7 p.m.CMPD Headquarters, 601 East Trade Street, Main Lobby

The Domestic Violence Advocacy Council is partnering with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department in this domestic violence public awareness effort. The Council includes representatives from the Mecklenburg County Women’s Commission, Department of Social Services, Sheriff’s Office, United Family Services’ Shelter for Battered Women, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Youth Crimes & Domestic Violence Unit, United Family Services’ Victim Assistance, local businesses and the interfaith community.

Domestic violence related homicides in Mecklenburg County are currently at eight for 2008.  There were ten in 2007, six in 2006, eleven domestic violence related homicides in 2005 and eight victim homicides in 2004.

The memorial event will commemorate the 69 lives lost as a result of domestic violence in North Carolina from January to December 2008.  
For a listing of the domestic violence homicide victims to be honored at this event, visit http://dvac.charmeck.org and click on 2008 DV Homicides. 
 
69 ribbons created by the DVAC as well as other supporters will adorn the memorial tree.  The ceremony will close with the lighting of the tree capturing a message that these fallen victims are shedding light on the issue of domestic violence. 
 
Attendance is free.  Community residents are encouraged to attend and continue to work to end domestic violence. 
 
The tree was donated by Home Depot #3646 and coffee is being provided by Starbucks