Town proclaims every May 10 as Jamie Rose Martin Domestic Violence Awareness Day
by Dan McClelland
The Tupper Lake Town Board adopted a resolution at Thursday night's meeting establishing May 10, 2023 and every May 10th thereafter in Tupper Lake as “Jamie Rose Martin Domestic Violence Awareness Day.”
The Martin family, through spokeswoman Tracy Sparks, had requested the measure at last month's town board meeting, as part of the campaign by the family members and friends of Jamie to promote domestic violence awareness.
Family members were back at Thursday's meeting for the formal action by the town board.
Deputy Supervisor Mary Fontana read the resolution that she said was beautifully drafted by Councilman Rick Donah in recent weeks. Mr. Donah was traveling and not able to attend the meeting that evening.
“Whereas the Town of Tupper Lake recognizes the tragedy of May 10, 2017, when the life of Jamie Rose Martin was taken by domestic violence. This somber day will be recognized in our community to advance awareness of domestic violence and to support its many victims.
“Whereas, New York State has created the only executive level agency dedicated to the issues of gender-based violence.
“Wheres, domestic violence behavior is a pattern of behavior used by an individual to establish and maintain power and control over their intimate partner or former partner. This behavior includes abusive tactics, threats, and actions that may or may not rise to the level of criminal behavior.
“Wheres the community continues to honor Jamie Rose Martin by taking a stand against domestic violence.
“Whereas, the designation of this day helps support the Domestic Violence Awareness Month and each October as a way to united advocates across the nation in their efforts to end domestic violence. February of each year also marks Teen Domestic Violence Awareness Month, an annual observance raising awareness about the specific ways that abuse impacts teen dating relationships.
“Be it resolved that the town clerk will add this to the town's annual calendar and the Town of Tupper Lake will recognize the importance of building awareness and identifying resources in this community to help prevent incidents of domestic violence. Copies of this resolution will be sent to the village, county and appropriate agencies in New York State.”
The town board resolution comes at a time when the community prepares to recognize the horror of domestic violence with Saturday's public awareness event in the municipal park in Jamie's honor.
Deputy Supervisor Mary Fontana presented Thursday evening a framed copy of the town board resolution affirming every May 10 as “Jamie Rose Martin Domestic Violence Awareness Day” in the Town of Tupper Lake to members of Jamie's family. From left were Jamie's father, Dick, her sister Jennifer Tice and her mother, Diane. (Dan McClelland photo)