When you think of October what comes to mind? My guess would be pumpkin spice lattes, costumes, and all things fall-related. If domestic violence isn’t on the list of things you think about in October, then let me catch you up…
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM)!
Let’s take a little trip down memory lane so I can fill you in on how it all started.
- Over 40 years ago, in 1981 the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence observed the “Day of Unity.” The purpose was to connect advocates across the nation who were working to end violence against women and children.
- A few years later, in October 1987 the first Domestic Violence Awareness Month was observed. That same year marks the initiation of the first national domestic violence toll-free hotline.
- In 1989 the U.S. Congress passed Public Law 101-112 designating October of that year as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
Courtesy Brigham and Women’s Hospital Archives, Countway Library of Medicine, Harvard University
Over time Domestic Violence Awareness Month has grown and bloomed! Now Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) recognizes that anyone can experience abuse or violence. It still holds true to its roots of connecting advocates but it’s also about connecting with the public and the people we love to…
- raise awareness about the signs of abuse and how to prevent it
- uplift survivor stories
- remember and honor the lives that have been lost
- provide additional resources to leaders & policymakers
4 ways you can get involved for DVAM
hint hint: Purple is the National Domestic Violence Awareness color
1. Wear purple on October 7, 2022
- Participate in the national #GoPurple for Domestic Violence Awareness Month campaign by wearing purple on October 7, 2022, and posting on social media.
- When you wear purple on October 7, 2022, you are raising awareness, validating survivors, and sparking conversations.
- Encourage at least 3 people you know to #GoPurple on Friday, October 7, 2022!
ACTION KIT: DVAM 2022 Action Kit to spread the word: BLOOM365 DVAM Action Kit
2. Sign the pledge to #GoPurple
- Pledge to wear purple in October to help raise awareness.
- Share the pledge with your friends, family, and followers!
PLEDGE: #GoPurple pledge to commit to wearing the awareness color in October: BLOOM365 #GoPurple Pledge
3. Host or attend an educational domestic violence event!
- Get your community involved in DVAM!
- Tons of options to do in-person or virtually
- Learn more about domestic violence and how you can help spot it!
EDUCATIONAL WORKSHOPS: Looking to host an educational workshop focused on domestic violence? BLOOM365 Workshop Request
4. Listen to survivor speakers
- Hear personal first-hand experiences of domestic violence.
- Empower survivors in their healing journey.
- Understand the realities of domestic violence.
SURVIVOR SPEAKER REQUEST: Want to host a Domestic Violence Awareness Month survivor speaker event? Survivor Speaker Request Form
