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It is a societal ill that, sadly, only seems to get worse.
We speak of domestic violence, especially of the lethal sort that result in a so-called "loved one" killing another. The latest annual numbers released by the Utah Domestic Violence Council lists 33 domestic violence related deaths in 2005. That number is up from 23 reported in 2004.
Think of it: domestic disputes claim one Utahn every eleven days! Husbands, wives, intimate partners, parents, children, and siblings, for whatever reason, end up in circumstances that turn violent and result in one killing the other.
As KSL has said before, domestic violence in its varied forms cannot be dismissed as merely a family problem. Rather, it must be viewed as a serious societal ill that demands attention. It encompasses all races, ethnic groups and education levels. It is not limited to gender, social class or religious affiliation. Indeed, it is everywhere.
We're reminded of a State Health Department report last November that recommended "education, awareness, outreach, and system and policy changes" in order to reduce domestic murder. Such changes, in KSL's view, are achievable - if - the entire community is willing to acknowledge the seriousness of the problem and support valid efforts to find solutions. It must not be swept under the rug.
