This petition is in honor of my mother who traumatically and unexpectedly passed away. However, before passing away, she had a motherly instinct to protect my babies and me and help us get out. 

Not everyone gets that chance. 

I was in a domestic violence relationship and did not recognize it at the time. Had I understood what was happening, I would have known to leave sooner.

The level of manipulation some of these individuals are capable of is deeply concerning and traps people in dangerous situations, often before they realize the risk, and sometimes before or after children are brought into the home.

This personal experience compels me to advocate for a significant change in our community to protect others who might unknowingly find themselves in a similar situation.

South Carolina is unfortunately one of the highest-ranking states for domestic violence cases. Our families, friends, and neighbors are impacted by the unseen battles behind closed doors.

While awareness campaigns and educational programs are vital, they are not enough to prevent the root causes of domestic violence.

Implementing a Domestic Violence Registry is a crucial step forward.

Other states have begun introducing this tool, providing citizens with access to information about individuals who have a documented history of domestic violence.

 This registry serves as a warning system, allowing potential victims to be informed and make safer choices in their personal relations.

 It empowers individuals by giving them the knowledge they need to protect themselves, and it acts as a deterrent for those who might consider repetition of their abusive patterns.

The benefits of establishing such a registry include enhanced safety for individuals starting new relationships, decreased repeat offenses by holding offenders accountable, and a general reduction in domestic violence incidents through deterrence.

 This registry will provide an important layer of safety, wherein people can check whether an individual they are considering dating has a reported history of domestic abuse.

Let us advocate for this significant change, not just for safety, but for the betterment of our entire society.

Please join me in calling upon our local legislators and leaders to implement a Domestic Violence Registry in South Carolina, just as other states have done.

Together, we can take a stand against domestic violence and foster a safer environment for all.

Please sign this petition to start this vital change and help protect others from falling victim to the same circumstances.