"We can and must do more to
end this terrible scourge," Mayor Joseph Curtatone told attendees.
"Domestic violence is one of the most challenging and secretive
problems out there."

In keeping with the goal, Deputy Police
Chief Michael Cabral announced that Kate Gurney will serve as the first
'advocate' for a special unit dedicated to domestic violence.

Executive
Director Jessica Brayden of Respond, inc., an organization that
specializes in domestic violence prevention and victim support, said
many are unaware when they are in an abusive situation.

"If you
have been hit, are isolated, intimidated, financially restricted, or
shoved, you might be in a very dangerous situation," Brayden said.
"Don't be silent. Domestic violence and murder are predictable, and
thereby preventable."

Somerville Health Director Paulette
Renault-Caragianes told the audience of a friend and co-worker who died
at the hands of her husband, calling the campaign to end domestic
violence "a human rights issue."

After speeches by
Aldermen-at-Large Dennis Sullivan, Bruce White and Ward 6 Alderman
Rebekah Gewirtz, a list of names of domestic violence victims was read
as candles were passed around the audience.

For more
information on domestic violence, visit the Somerville Women's
Commission page at the city's website. The hotline number for Respond
is (617) 623-5900.