*sample proof*

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Introductory Remarks for WA Says No More Launch

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Good evening and welcome. I’d like to ask everyone in the audience to close your eyes, and reflect on something.

 

When was the last time you were genuinely scared? (brief pause for reflection)

Scared of a spider in the house…

Scared of making a life change…

Scared of a violent spouse…

 

“In 2014, according to the Washington Association… roughly 41,000 domestic violence offenses were reported to the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs.”*

 

That’s nearly 50 thousand times a person in Washington state was genuinely scared.

That’s also nearly 50 thousand times a person in Washington state decided to say “no more” to living in fear.

Here we are four years later, living in an era of activism. Nationwide voices are rising up and combating the violence that occurs on a daily basis. Today marks another step forward on this journey toward a world without violence. Today, Washington comes together to end domestic violence and sexual assault.

 

And this evening, Washington says no more.

 

If you’re here tonight, then this is something you already know. But that means we in this room must listen. Listen to the hushed cries of those around you, trying to speak out with a muffled voice. Be a resource. Educate those you know and love of the community that Washington is building to end violence. Assure them that our state is committed to safe schools, safe workplaces and safe communities. It’s our turn, as Washingtonians, to say no more.

 

 

*Stat. from https://www.doh.wa.gov/Portals/1/Documents/1500/IV-DV2016-DU.pdf