DESIGNATING SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2026, AS "GFWC INTERNATIONAL DAY OF SERVICE UNITED TO END DOMESTIC AND SEXUAL VIOLENCE" IN THE STATE OF DELAWARE.

153rd General Assembly (2025-2026) Introduced by Frank Cooke and 1 co-sponsor

Designates September 26, 2026, as Delaware’s GFWC International Day of Service to End Domestic and Sexual Violence, promoting awareness and community service.

Passed By Senate. Votes: 21 YES

Summary of HCR 156 (Delaware, Session 153)

Purpose and intent

HCR 156 designates a specific day in Delaware: Saturday, September 26, 2026, as the "GFWC International Day of Service United to End Domestic and Sexual Violence."

The resolution expresses the state's recognition and support for efforts to prevent and end domestic and sexual violence, aligning Delaware with the international observance promoted by the General Federation of Women’s Clubs (GFWC).

Key provisions

Official designation: The bill proclaims Saturday, September 26, 2026, as a state-recognized day of service in honor of GFWC’s initiative to end domestic and sexual violence.

Symbolic acknowledgement: The designation serves as a formal acknowledgment by the Delaware General Assembly of the importance of volunteer service and community action in addressing domestic and sexual violence.

Implicit expectations: While the text provided does not specify mandated actions, such resolutions typically encourage schools, community organizations, and local governments to recognize the day, engage in service activities, and promote awareness and resources related to domestic and sexual violence prevention and support.

Affected entities

Government and public institutions: Delaware state government, including state agencies, departments, and elected officials, as the designation originates from the General Assembly.

Community organizations and nonprofits: Groups involved in service and advocacy related to domestic and sexual violence may reference the designation in programming and outreach.

General public: Residents of Delaware may be encouraged to participate in or support service activities and awareness campaigns on or around the designated date.

Procedural and timeline aspects

Status: Introduced in the House on June 30, 2026.

Next steps: As a concurrent or joint resolution of recognition, it would typically progress through standard legislative readings and potential floor votes in the House and Senate (depending on Delaware’s legislative rules). If approved, the designation would be observed in the 2026 calendar year on the specified date.

Non-binding nature: Designations of this type are symbolic and non-levying in nature; they do not create new laws or expenditures, unless accompanied by separate appropriations (not indicated in the summary).

Practical impact and considerations

Public awareness: Highlights the issue of domestic and sexual violence and promotes community service as a response.

Partnerships: May foster collaboration among state agencies, schools, libraries, and service organizations to promote resources, prevention programs, and survivor support.

Observance: May lead to events such as service projects, awareness campaigns, or proclamations by local governments and organizations around September 26, 2026.

If you need, I can tailor this summary to specific audiences (e.g., policymakers, advocates, or the general public) or add potential calendar-year implementation notes based on Delaware’s usual practices for commemorative resolutions.