Nola Reporter

NEW ORLEANS — Mayor LaToya Cantrell today issued the following statement on domestic violence and the need for continued access to supportive services:

"As I have said before, violence in our families and in our communities has truly become a matter of public health," said Mayor LaToya Cantrell.

"Everyone deserves to live a safe and healthy life, free from the threat of violence of any kind. My administration will continue to invest in violence reduction programs, in addition to promoting gun safety, mental health support and other wraparound services to keep our people safe and our families whole. I have deep gratitude for all those supporting and advocating on behalf of victims of domestic violence, from our own Health Department to invaluable community partners like the New Orleans Family Justic Center and Arin’s Nesting Place. The painstaking care in which you handle your work touches lives. 

Domestic violence is more than just violence between intimate partners. Often, children are dragged into these disputes, as we witnessed from the absolute tragic event earlier this week. My heart aches for the mother who not only experienced violence at the hands of her former partner but now has to process the unimaginable loss of her three children. My prayers are with her, her family and loved ones.  

New Orleans, we are a close community. Innocent lives are being taken, and now is the time to gather strength from one another and lift each other up. Silence in the face of these issues is unacceptable. We must speak up when we see signs of violence in our neighborhoods or in our homes. I encourage anyone who is experiencing domestic violence, or knows someone who is, to call (504) 658-5523 or the 24/7 domestic violence hotline at (504) 866-9554. Additionally, New Orleans Family Justice Center can be reached at their main office line at (504) 592-4005. Help and support is available. 

Every life is precious, especially our young children. The City of New Orleans will continue to prioritize the well-being of every resident by providing programs and resources, so that one day, we can hope to live in a beautiful, peaceful community."

Original source can be found here.