Gov. Linda Lingle and Lt. Gov. James "Duke" Aiona Jr, have proclaimed October as "Domestic Abuse Awareness Month" in Hawaii. The text of the proclamation is as follows:

Domestic violence does not discriminate. Unfortunately, it can affect people from all ethnicities, backgrounds and economic brackets. The only constant is the pain the victims feel.

Abuse may be perpetrated through verbal, psychological and economic means, as well as though physical or sexual violence. When that abuse happens between intimate partners, that betrayal of trust levies a steep emotional, and perhaps even physical toll.

In extreme cases it can result in loss of life. There were six domestic violence-related homicides each year in 2006 and 2007 in Hawai'i. This year, through mid-August, that number has grown to seven, showing that there is still much to be done in the prevention of this destructive behavior.

As we reflect on the scourge of domestic violence, it is important to remember that men can be victims as well. According to the group Respecting Accuracy in Domestic Abuse Reporting, women are as likely as men to engage in aggression against their partner. The group cites studies that show that men experience 38 percent of domestic violence-related injuries and are nine times less likely to report abuse to police.

But regardless of which partner initiates aggression, domestic violence is a crime against the community. Beyond the substantial human toll, the financial cost manifests itself in loss of productivity and the use of medical and law enforcement resources.

To highlight the damage done to families and communities by violence between partners, the Hawai'i State Coalition Against Domestic Violence is observing Domestic Violence Awareness Month. This year's theme is Keeping the Candle Burning, which calls to mind the silent candlelight vigils against abuse, while remaining focused on the ongoing harm it causes. The Hawai'i State Coalition Against Domestic Violence is comprised of 20 agencies on O'ahu, Moloka'i, Maui, Lana'i, Kaua'i and the Big Island dedicated to providing resources to victims.