[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 154 (2008), Part 17] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages 23485-23486] [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]RECOGNIZING OCTOBER AS NATIONAL DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH ______ HON. JERRY MORAN of kansas in the house of representatives Monday, September 29, 2008 Mr. MORAN of Kansas. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the month of October as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. During my tenure in Congress, significant progress has been made in calling attention to domestic violence and helping victims and families recover from these abuses. However, much work still remains to be done because senseless acts of violence are still taking place in our homes and communities. Tragically we were reminded of the need for greater efforts to combat domestic violence this past July when tragedy struck in my home State of Kansas. Today, I'd like to share with you the Jana Lynne Mackey story. On July 20, 1982, Jana Lynne Mackey was born in Harper, Kansas. Jana was raised primarily in Hays, Kansas, where she was an active member of 4-H, an athlete, and a talented musician. But most of all she was a vibrant and caring young woman who fought for those whose voice could not be heard. Following high school graduation, Jana completed a bachelor's degree where she discovered her passion--advocating for others. She went on to pursue a law degree at the University of Kansas with the goal of using education to further the cause of others. Jana tirelessly fought for equality and social justice through her work with countless local and national organizations. She was also an active volunteer at the Lawrence GaDuGi Safe Center, a facility that aids victims of sexual assault and domestic violence. But on July 3, 2008, Jana's body was found in an ex-boyfriend's home--her own promising life prematurely ended by an act of domestic violence. All too often we think acts of domestic violence do not transpire in our communities or to people and families we know. But Jana's story is evidence that no State, community, or family is immune to its far- reaching hands. Domestic violence is a problem that does not discriminate by race, gender, age group, education, or social status and its plague wreaks havoc on our increasingly-stressed healthcare network, our over-flowing criminal justice system, and our day-to-day life within our communities. Domestic violence continues to impact communities in Kansas and across America. Each year nearly 4 million new incidences of domestic violence are reported in the United States, with many more unaccounted for due to fear and intimidation. Of those 4 million reported cases, nearly 100,000 Kansas women fall victim to domestic violence each year. Each day in America over 53,000 victims receive care through domestic violence programs, the programs Jana Mackey volunteered and advocated for. Despite the harsh realities of domestic violence that loom, there is hope for a better tomorrow. It is my belief that with continued education, resources, and support, victims of domestic violence can overcome their condition. In the 69 counties I represent, it is that same belief that maintains and encourages the 9 domestic violence centers in my district. These agencies are vital to our communities as they raise awareness of domestic violence, advocate for victims, and provide victims with the support, resources, and care they desperately need. Jana made a greater impact in her 25 years than many individuals do in a lifetime. While Jana's story is tragic, her example is a lesson and an inspiration for us all to be more active in the fight against domestic violence. This is why her family started the 1100 Torches campaign. At Jana's funeral, 1,100 people were in attendance, which indicates the magnitude of her impact in the lives of others. In the aftermath of her death, her mother, Christie Brungardt, and stepfather, Curt, along with her family and friends, launched the 1100 Torches campaign to serve as Jana's call to action, that despite our personal politics, we can make a difference in the world and in turn make it a better place to live. It is the campaign's hope that through Jana's story, 1,100 people will be inspired by her to serve others and make a difference in their communities. I encourage my colleagues and all Americans to learn more about Jana's story and the impact of domestic violence by visiting the 1100 Torches campaign Web site at www.1100torches.org and by learning more about this issue in your local community. We are making progress in raising awareness and drawing attention to domestic violence, yet this is a problem that continues to impact our communities. We must not forget about these violent crimes that destroy homes and families, and devastate lives. This October, let us remember the victims of domestic violence and learn from their courage as we do our best to ensure that our communities are safe places to live, work, and raise our families. [[Page 23486]] Madam Speaker, I ask for continued support and assistance for domestic violence prevention programs. ____________________