Karen Garcia’s death at the hand of her ex-boyfriend nearly five years ago continues to spur her family and friends to take a stand in Colusa County against the abuse that undermines society and the ability of families to be resilient.
“When we prevent domestic violence, we promote safety within our community and show respect for all,” said Cynthia “Tootie” Hackett, founder of Karen’s House, in a request to the Colusa County Board of Supervisors to declare October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
Salvador Garcia-Vaca, who is serving 25 years in prison, admitted to killing the mother of his child in a fit of jealous rage – and to the battering incident weeks earlier that led to their breakup.
The couple, both in their early 20s, grew up in Williams and had been together since junior high school.
“This tragedy put a spotlight on domestic violence issues in Colusa County, and Karen’s House, the first Colusa County nonprofit for domestic violence advocacy, was formed in response,” according to a proclamation signed by Williams Mayor Roberto Mendoza.
The Cities of Williams and Colusa, and the Board of Supervisors made separate proclamations to declare the public awareness campaign, and urged all citizens, agencies, and businesses to work together through prevention, intervention, and education programs.
According to Karen’s House, one in five women and one in seven men have experienced severe physical violence by an intimate partner in his or her lifetime.
“The crime of domestic violence violates an individual’s privacy, dignity, security, and humanity due to the systematic use of physical, emotional, sexual, psychological, and economic control,” said Board of Supervisors Chairman Merced Corona.
Although intimate partner violence accounts for 15 percent of all violent crime, officials said a substantial percentage of domestic violence occurrences go unreported.
“Many victims tell no one about the abuse for various reasons, including fear of stigma, fear of reprisal, fear of losing custody of children, fear of arrest, fear of job loss, fear of losing health coverage, and lack of knowledge regarding how to access available services,” the Williams proclamation states.
When an incident of domestic violence occurs, officials said it cannot be kept a private matter.
“Research has shown children who witness domestic violence and do not get help are more likely to become victims or perpetrators of future abuse,” Hackett noted.
Hackett said during Domestic Violence Awareness Month and throughout the year, Karen’s House remains committed to offering a helping hand to those most in need and reminds them they are not alone.
The public is invited to help Karen’s House bring awareness to domestic violence issues in Colusa County by lighting up their home or business the week of Oct. 16-22 with purple light bulbs to show support for victims and their families.
Purple bulbs can be purchased for $5 at the Pioneer Review, 430 Market St. and other select locations. All proceeds go to Karen’s House.
For more information about Karen’s House or to get help, visit karenshouse.org or call (530) 393-8317. Information and help is also available from Casa de Esperanza. Visit domesticshelters.org/help/ca/yuba-city or call the domestic violence hotline at (530) 674-2040. ■