COLUMBIA, S.C. (WCBD) - Attorney General Alan Wilson honored the victims of domestic violence at a ceremony held at the State House Capitol on Tuesday. Officials said Attorney General Wilson called the name of 24 women and six men from across the state who lost their lives last year as the result of domestic violence. October marks the beginning of National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Family members and friends carried life-size silhouettes, representing each victim. An additional silhouette was carried to represent potential unknown victims, a bell was rung to honor each victim. "Breaking the silence is the first step toward ending domestic violence. Each life lost to domestic violence is a call to action; let their memory fuel our fight for justice and change,” said Attorney General Wilson. Alan Wilson, religious leaders, and other community members made special remarks to highlight the problem of domestic violence in South Carolina. “Domestic violence is not just a private matter; it is a public concern that needs our collective response. When we stand together, we can end domestic violence and create safer communities," the Attorney General added.