ATL Standard: Atlanta launches campaign against rising domestic violence

Mayor Andre Dickens, in coordination with the Mayor’s Office of Violence Reduction and local Atlanta celebrities, announced the launch of “Atlanta Says NO MORE: Together We Can End Domestic Violence,” a comprehensive campaign aimed at raising awareness and taking action against domestic violence. This initiative outlines the City’s commitment to ending domestic violence by asking the community to “Do One Thing, ATL.”

Included in the campaign are notable local celebrities Dallas Austin, Big Gipp, Miss Lawrence, Monyetta Shaw Carter, and Rasheeda, who have all pledged their support to raise awareness and contribute to the cause.

“Domestic violence is a serious issue that tears households apart and, in some cases, results in the loss of life—and it is on the rise. As a community, we must pay attention and we must have these tough conversations. By discussing it, recognizing the signs, providing resources—and simply being available--we have the power to end domestic violence together,” said Mayor Dickens.

“As a city, we’ve seen an increase in domestic violence incidents year to date,” said Marcus Walker, Director of the Mayor’s Office of Violence Reduction. “We can all be a part of the solution. It’s time for us to work collaboratively to reverse this crisis. Great things can happen when people come together to achieve a common goal. Let’s stand in unison and say ‘No More.’ Join us in creating a safer and more peaceful city for all.”

Driven by the fast-growing number of injuries and deaths involving firearms across the country, this week U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy declared gun violence a public health crisis. This national action highlights the urgency of addressing all forms of violence, including domestic violence, which is often intertwined with firearm-related incidents.

The Mayor’s Office of Violence Reduction, created in August 2023, serves as the City’s resource for violence reduction and community-based intervention and is dedicated to promoting proactive efforts to transform cultural norms that enable domestic violence. In 2024, Atlanta saw a rise in domestic violence incidents; as of week 18, the Atlanta Police Department (APD) reported 674 incidents, including 12 homicides related to domestic violence. This marks an increase of 76 incidents compared to the same period in 2023.

Whether organizing collective action or contributing on an individual level, the “Atlanta Says NO MORE” campaign emphasizes that awareness must be combined with action to drive social change. All residents are encouraged to contribute their own unique “One Thing” to help transform communities, acknowledging that every small action can build momentum towards significant change.

For more information about “Atlanta Says NO MORE”, see examples of “Do One Thing, ATL,” and learn how to get involved contact the Mayor’s Office of Violence Reduction at MOVRATL@atlantaga.gov or visit www.atlnomore.com.

Read the original article here.