We honor national Domestic Violence Awareness Month during October, and this year we must remind ourselves that we still have a long way to go to end the violence that too many people experience every day. Recent media coverage of domestic violence has forced the issue to our attention, and now is our moment to change the conversation. Let’s approach this month with the desire to understand and see different perspectives. Let’s change the way we talk about abuse and violence in our daily lives. Let’s tell our friends and family that we will always support them, no matter what. Let’s speak up when we notice red flags – before it’s too late. Let’s honor survivors by sharing their stories of hope, fear, pain and empowerment. Let’s put aside our judgment and listen. Let’s focus on what each one of us can do to promote safety and respect for everyone, all the time. Let’s remember that violence is a choice, and we can choose to end it.
Wear purple ribbons to draw awareness to DVAM:
Lots of people are familiar with October as breast cancer awareness month, but domestic violence is also a major public health threat that impacts women and families across all walks of life. When you wear a purple ribbon for DVAM, invite others to ask you about the issue and learn how they can help those impacted by abuse in their relationships.
Contact Jordan to request purple ribbons to share with your family, friends, workplace, team, or organization.
Events to honor DVAM:
· 10/18 – Safe Harbor/Healthy Relationship table @ the Imagine Festival (an intentionally multi-cultural space hosted by the Richmond Office of Multicultural Affairs)
· 10/21 – Henrico Co. sponsors Abuse in Later Life training – Open to everyone
· 10/25 – S.C.@.R.S. presents Purple Pillow Talk
· 10/30 – Safe Harbor/Healthy Relationship/Trunk or Treat Event @ Woodland Crossing in the East End. Contact Stacie to learn more!
· 10/30 – The YWCA’s Remember My Name memorial event. Use this Remember My Name_Submission Form 2014 to enter the name of a loved one lost to domestic violence. Check out more DVAM Events from the Richmond YWCA!