Josh Atkinson Addresses Domestic Violence in Freeport.

Domestic violence is a profound and urgent issue that casts a long shadow over Freeport. It disrupts families, harms children, and weakens the foundation of the community. Mayoral candidate Joshua T. Atkinson believes it is a crisis that can no longer be ignored or tolerated. He affirms that every Freeport resident has the right to feel safe in their own home and that it is the government’s moral responsibility to stand up for the most vulnerable among us—those whose voices are often the hardest to hear.

Joshua Atkinson recognizes that it is unacceptable for anyone in Freeport to live in fear. His vision is a city where safety and dignity are not privileges but fundamental rights. As mayor, he will take a comprehensive approach to address domestic violence, rooted in prevention, accountability, and survivor support.

Joshua plans to prioritize prevention through education. By fostering partnerships with schools and community organizations, he will advocate for programs that teach about healthy relationships and the early warning signs of abuse. Additionally, he intends to launch public awareness campaigns to break the silence and stigma surrounding domestic violence, empowering survivors to seek help.

Joshua understands that law enforcement plays a critical role in addressing this issue. He will ensure that Freeport’s police officers and first responders receive enhanced training to better understand the complexities of abuse and respond effectively and sensitively. His administration will prioritize equipping law enforcement with the tools necessary to protect survivors and hold perpetrators accountable.

Support for survivors will be another cornerstone of his plan. Joshua is committed to expanding access to safe housing, legal assistance, counseling, and job training programs for those escaping abusive situations. By working closely with local shelters and advocacy organizations, he will establish a robust network of support to help survivors rebuild their lives and reclaim their independence.

Accountability and transparency will also be central to his approach. Joshua Atkinson will call for regular public reporting on domestic violence incidents in Freeport to evaluate the effectiveness of city initiatives and strengthen community trust. He is determined to secure additional state and federal resources to bolster the city’s prevention and support services.

Joshua Atkinson believes that addressing domestic violence is not just about resolving a single issue—it is about creating a culture where abuse has no place and where every resident knows that their city government is committed to their safety and well-being. His leadership will reflect strength and compassion, bringing Freeport together to address this critical issue.

As mayor, Joshua Atkinson is determined to reduce the number of residents living in fear within their own homes. He is committed to ensuring that survivors know they are not alone and that their city stands with them. Under his leadership, Freeport will move toward a future where safety, dignity, and opportunity are shared by all.