Wednesday marked "Shine the Light on Domestic Violence Day" in New York State. In Buffalo, local domestic violence service providers gathered on the steps of City Hall to recognize the work against domestic violence.
Robyn Wiktorski-Reynolds is coordinator at Crisis Services. She noted an 11-percent increase in domestic violence cases this year and believes there are more unreported cases.
"We stand here, in solidarity, as domestic violence service providers, urging those who may be watching or listening today who do not feel safe in their relationships, who may be experience physical, verbal or emotional abuse in their relationships, you are not alone," said Wiktowrkski-Reynolds.
Chief Scott Joslyn is with the Erie County Sheriff's Department. Joslyn said last year they responded to more than 1,600 calls related to a domestic dispute.
"Of those calls we responded to, a total of 755 domestic incident reports were filed," said Joslyn.
The Erie County Coalition Against Family Violence, County Sheriff's Department, Erie County Social Services and Haven House also provide assistance to local domestic violence victims.
Crystal Rodriguez leads the City's Commission on Citizens' Rights. Rodriguez said domestic violence does not discriminate.
"I don't care what color you are, but it is not a poor/rich issue. It is not a black/white issue. It is an issue that affects all of us," said Rodriguez.