Over the weekend, Governor Kathy Hochul recognized January as Stalking Awareness Month and January 18th as Stalking Awareness Day of Action in New York State. She issued a proclamation and directing that all State landmarks be illuminated yellow on Saturday in honor of those impacted by stalking and all forms of gender-based violence.
Last month, Governor Hochul signed A09616/S09174 into law. The new law offers additional protections to domestic violence victims and survivors by providing for the termination of an abuser’s access to vehicle tracking technology.
“Back in the 1970s, conversations about domestic violence were rare. Inspired by my mother’s advocacy, I am dedicated to enacting laws that protect those impacted by abuse,” Governor Hochul said. “From new laws that protect victims of domestic violence to shining a light on the dangers of technology-facilitated stalking, we are taking action to make New York a safer place for everyone. As we light up our landmarks in yellow tomorrow, let’s remember that each light represents a survivor’s strength, and together, we are moving closer to a future where violence has no place in our communities.”
In recognition of Stalking Awareness Month, the New York State Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence (OPDV) is holding a Stalking Awareness Month Social Media Campaign across the agency’s social media platforms. This year’s focus is on technology facilitated and cyber stalking. This can include, but is not limited to, the use of tracking devices, location sharing, social media monitoring and harassment. Visit OPDV’s Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and LinkedIn pages for more information on stalking and where to find resources.
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