As a survivor of domestic violence, I have experienced firsthand the “cracks” within our judicial system in protecting victims, especially the most vulnerable—our children. Many victims within our community have been overlooked by a system that should have been their safeguard against abuse and neglect. Kentucky has one of the highest domestic violence rates in the country. It is disheartening how some abusers, in their relentless pursuit of control, often resort to targeting victims’ children, at times even their own, as a means to exert power and maintain dominance and control over their victims. Often times using threats of retaliation, violence or financial withholding when victims attempt to leave their abusers. When a victim attempts to leave their abuser, statistically they are 70% more likely to end in a victim fatality.        
The introduction of Clare’s Law in Lexington, KY, could serve as a pivotal step towards addressing this dire issue. Clare's Law, first implemented in the UK, provides individuals with the right to ask the police about whether a partner poses a risk of domestic violence. It empowers potential victims by giving them access to critical information that could potentially save lives.

According to the National Domestic Violence Hotline, nearly 20 people per minute are physically abused by an intimate partner in the United States. This staggering statistic highlights the urgent need for preventative measures in our communities. Implementing Clare’s Law could help mitigate these risks by allowing individuals the chance to make informed decisions about their relationships based on factual information.

Additionally, a report by the CDC outlines how children exposed to domestic violence are at a significantly higher risk of future violence perpetration and victimization. Providing parents and guardians the right to necessary information about a partner’s past could prove instrumental in breaking this cycle of abuse. It is our duty as a community to ensure every child grows up in a safe and nurturing environment, free from fear and harm.

I urge the city of Lexington, local lawmakers, and concerned citizens to take decisive action by implementing Clare's Law in our city. This law will not only protect potential victims but also create a culture of transparency and safety. Join me in this crucial fight to protect our children and community by signing this petition. Let’s stand together and make a meaningful difference.