Columbia City, Indiana – Mayor Ryan Daniel is set to sign a proclamation that designates October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The signing ceremony will take place on Wednesday, Oct. 7, at 10 a.m. in the gazebo of the Whitley County Courthouse, located at 101 W. Van Buren St. in Columbia City.
Why the proclamation matters
The observance, promoted by YWCA Northeast Indiana, aims to raise public awareness about domestic violence, honor survivors, and connect community members with vital resources. The month‑long effort began nationally in 1981 as a “Day of Unity” and has since become an annual focus for education and advocacy.
Local impact and statistics
YWCA Northeast Indiana reports that roughly 42.5% of women and 28% of men in Indiana experience intimate‑partner physical violence, sexual violence, or stalking at some point in their lives. In 2025, the state recorded 100 domestic‑violence‑related fatalities. These figures underscore the importance of local leaders taking visible steps to address the issue.
Mayor Daniel’s commitment
Mayor Daniel emphasized that the proclamation reflects Columbia City’s dedication to protecting families and supporting survivors. “Our community stands together to confront domestic violence,” he said. “By recognizing this month, we reaffirm our commitment to safety, compassion, and the well‑being of every resident.”
YWCA’s role and resources
YWCA Northeast Indiana serves six counties, including Whitley County, offering advocacy, education, and support services for those affected by violence, trauma, and addiction. The organization provides a domestic‑violence‑awareness toolkit that includes statistics, event calendars, and information on local shelters, hotlines, and counseling services.
How residents can get involved
Community members are encouraged to attend the proclamation ceremony, share information about available resources, and participate in outreach events throughout October. Additional details on awareness activities and support options can be found on the YWCA Northeast Indiana website.
Looking ahead
The proclamation signals a continued partnership between local government and nonprofit agencies to combat domestic violence. Mayor Daniel and city officials plan to explore further initiatives, such as educational workshops for schools and faith‑based groups, to strengthen the community’s response to this pressing issue.
Original reporting: WOWO News/Talk (Fort Wayne) — read the source article.
