October 12, 2026 - Sonora, California - Domestic violence impacts millions of people each year, but it can be prevented. It requires the collective voice and power of individuals, families, institutions, and systems taking action to stand with survivors, always.

That is why this October, during Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM), Tuolumne County District Attorney’s Office is shifting from awareness to action. We invite you to join us in taking collective action to end domestic violence.

Throughout the month, you will be hearing from the Tuolumne County District Attorney’s Office as we continue to spread not only awareness but highlight the action taken by our office to combat domestic violence in our community. 

“Many people care and understand that domestic violence is a serious problem. They want to do something, but aren’t sure where to begin,” said District Attorney Cassandra Jenecke. “It feels overwhelming. But this current moment requires collective action on behalf of survivors and their families. When we work together, we can make a difference.” 

According to the Centers for Disease Control, more than 1 in 3 women and 1 in 6 men have experienced contact sexual violence, physical violence, and/or stalking by an intimate partner in their lifetime. (2023/2024 Intimate Partner Violence Data Brief.) Every day, advocates and local domestic violence programs are there to help. But across the United States, countless programs are currently facing funding shortages and operating at reduced capacity. Some have even had to close their doors.

“From July 2025 through June 2026, the Tuolumne County District Attorney’s Office Victim Witness Services has served 156 victims of domestic abuse and violence by providing almost 4,500 services,” added Victim Witness Supervisor Hollie Brown. “Survivors deserve safety, support, and solidarity. That is why we need everyone — advocates, medical professionals, educators, survivors, researchers, policy makers, law enforcement, business owners, students — to take action. We must stand with survivors, always.”

Everyone has a role to play. You can:

• Be a caring and consistent adult in the life of a child
• Talk to loved ones about healthy relationships, red flags, and domestic violence
• Create a culture of consent in your home
• Use social media to raise awareness among your peers
• Donate time, goods, or funds to your local domestic violence program
• Advocate for policies that support survivors and their families
• Learn more at DVawareness.org/WithSurvivors

This October, join Tuolumne County District Attorney’s Office as we mourn for those whose lives were taken by domestic violence, celebrate the tremendous progress victim advocates have made over the years, and connect to meet our current moment. Together, we must stand with survivors. Always. 

Source: Tuolumne County District Attorney  Graphic: California Victim Compensation Board (CalVCB)