Ceremony in Frankfort honors victims during Domestic Violence Awareness Month

FRANKFORT, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) – Kentuckians gathered in the state capital Monday to honor those who have lost their lives to domestic violence during a solemn “Say My Name” ceremony marking Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

First Lady Britainy Beshear joined advocates, survivors, and lawmakers at the Capitol Rotunda to remember victims and raise awareness about the ongoing fight to end intimate partner violence.

“It’s important for us to continue to have this ceremony so that we continue to remind people that this is a pervasive issue that is continuing,” said Andrea Robinson with OASIS Shelter and ZeroV, a statewide domestic violence coalition.

Robinson said the ceremony also serves to recognize the communities and families forever impacted by domestic violence. “We all know someone,” she said. “Just a couple of years ago, I had someone very close personally to me that I stood up there and read her name.”

According to Robinson, one in three women and about 35 percent of men experience some form of domestic violence. She added that the real numbers may be even higher, as many victims remain silent due to fear or lack of resources.

State Representative Samara Heavrin noted that in 2024, Kentucky had the nation’s highest domestic violence rate.

During the event, First Lady Britainy Beshear presented a proclamation from Governor Andy Beshear declaring October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month in Kentucky.

“They’re not just numbers—they’re our neighbors,” Beshear said. “These men, women, and children are from every community, every corner of our state.”

Advocates emphasized that abuse is not always physical—it can also be emotional, sexual, or financial—and encouraged anyone experiencing violence to seek help.

Officials say the hope is that continued awareness and community support will one day lead to an end to domestic violence across Kentucky.