Domestic Abuse Awareness Walk Today

Men are being encouraged to help combat domestic violence and abuse in Koochiching County.

The International Men's March to Stop Rape, Sexual Assault and Gender Violent will be held in International Falls later this morning.

Executive Director with the group Friends Against Abuse LeeAnn Meer says its important for men to become involved.

"We know that 95-per cent of the perpetrators of domestic violence are men," says Meer. "My believe is that the majority of men are good men. We just simply need them to stand with us and say 'this is not OK, we're holding batterers accountable,' and that's what will bring awareness and change of what's going on."

Meer estimates Koochiching County spends nearly $900-thousand a year dealing with the issues of domestic violence.