I am a survivor. My journey has been one of unimaginable pain, resilience, and transformation. After enduring domestic violence, living in constant fear, and facing the overwhelming challenge of rebuilding my life from scratch, I discovered my voice through my books: *Why She Stay*, *The Aftermath of Trauma*, and *Becoming Her, Becoming Me*. My aim is to empower survivors with the powerful reminder that their trauma does not define them, but what they do with their lives thereafter can transform them.

Domestic violence remains an insidious threat, deeply affecting countless individuals in Ohio and beyond. The stories of survival, like my own, are sometimes marred by a haunting reality: the danger doesn't always end when a victim walks out the door. Without proper resources and societal mechanisms in place, offenders repeatedly escape accountability, often leaving survivors and communities in vulnerable positions.

This is why I am urgently calling for Ohio to establish a public Domestic Violence Offender Registry. Such a registry would serve as a vital tool for safeguarding our communities, providing transparency, and offering peace of mind to current and potential victims. A 2007 report by the U.S. Department of Justice revealed that domestic violence often escalates over time. By enabling public access to offender information, individuals can make informed decisions about their safety and the safety of their families.

Similar registries in other states have proven effective; a 2016 study from the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services found that the state's registry led to a significant reduction in repeat offenses. Let's learn from these successes and adapt them to fit Ohio’s needs.

This registry will only be effective if it is comprehensive and up-to-date. It needs to include thorough records of offenders, ensuring that pertinent information is easily accessible without compromising the privacy of survivors. We can, and must, safeguard human dignity and safety simultaneously.

Creating this registry is an actionable step toward protecting lives, boosting public awareness, and holding perpetrators accountable. It empowers individuals with the information they need to protect themselves, and it sends a strong message that Ohio values the safety and human rights of its citizens.

I survived my ordeal, and I want others to thrive without living in fear of their abuser. Please join me in this important advocacy for change. Let the voices of survivors be heard and take a stand against domestic violence by signing this petition. Together, we can compel our lawmakers to prioritize the safety and well-being of those affected by domestic violence in Ohio. 💗