Domestic Violence Task Force

History

The Domestic Violence Task Force (DVTF) was created by the City of Dallas Public Safety Committee in September 1987. The purpose of the task force was to research, explore, develop and monitor the City’s response to the problem of family violence in Dallas and the Police Department’s enforcement of laws relating to family violence.

The task force membership was determined by the Public Safety Committee. It included representatives from the Dallas Police Department, local family shelters including The Family Place, Genisis Women’s Shelter, New Beginnings and other organizations involved in family violence intervention and prevention.

The scope of the task force was to review, evaluate and recommend new training materials and programs regarding enforcement of laws relating to family violence and its prevention. The task force also monitored training conducted by the Police Department relevant to family violence and was required to submit an annual report of its recommendations to the City Council.

On October 5, 2011, Mayor Pro Tem Pauline Medrano proclaimed the month as Domestic Violence Awareness Month in Dallas. This proclamation and recognition evolved from the “Day of Unity” created in October 1981 by the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, whose purpose was to connect advocates across the nation working to end violence against women and their children.

At this event, a special recognition was made to Dr. Ellen Solender who has served on the City of Dallas Domestic Violence Task Force since its creation in 1987, and Councilmember Delia Jasso was named the new/current Chairperson for the Domestic Violence Task Force.

Past Chairpersons
Councilmember Sandy Greyson, Councilmember Dr. Elba Garcia
and Mayor Pro Tem Pauline Medrano