Press Release
According to U.S. Census data, Utah’s population consists of nearly 1.5 million women. Of those, one in three – approximately 500,000 – will experience domestic abuse at some time in her life.
Based on these numbers, it is virtually impossible for any one of us to not know a woman in Utah who is experiencing or has previously experienced domestic abuse. Daughters, sisters, mothers, aunts, grandmothers, wives, partners, friends, coworkers and acquaintances – all of these women are at risk.
To increase the public’s awareness about the prevalence of domestic abuse of women in Utah, we have launched a statewide billboard campaign featuring three local women and one compelling fact: #Utah1in3.
“Domestic abuse can present in many ways – financially, emotionally, verbally, sexually and physically. Our intent with these billboards is to bring awareness to a ‘household’ problem that is far too common in Utah,” said Jenn Oxborrow, executive director of Utah Domestic Violence Coalition. “With this awareness, and by directing people to our website – udvc.org, we are hoping that those who are being abused will find the support and resources they need to be safe. We are also hoping that this awareness will inform those who suspect or witness abuse and empower them to advocate for policies and supportive services that protect victims and prevent further abuse and violence.”
Billboards are located in Brigham, Ogden, Salt Lake, South Salt Lake, West Valley, Holladay, Heber, Vernal, Price, Green River, Scipio, Richfield, Cedar and Washington. The billboards will remain up through mid-July.