There is no shortage of commemorative days and months (October 1, 2015, for instance, was the first official International Coffee Day). But few issues are more worthy of commemoration than the problem of domestic violence, which is said to affect nearly one in four women and one in seven men in the U.S. alone. Its signifier the purple ribbon, October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, commemorating victims and survivors of domestic violence and abuse.
The Key Focus of Domestic Violence Awareness Month
- Mourning those who lost their lives
- Celebrating survivors
- Connecting people whose work involves putting an end to domestic violence
According to the Domestic Violence Awareness Project, October 1987 was the first commemorative month. A national toll free hotline (1-800-799-7233) was also established that year, which gave victims an opportunity to seek help and resources (although 911 is still the first number to dial if you or your children are in danger).
The Violence Against Women Act
This 2015 presidential proclamation reaffirms the administration’s commitment to reducing the impact of domestic violence. It references the Violence Against Women Act, which was passed in 1994, and has been repeatedly reauthorized by federal lawmakers over the years.
The Violence Against Women Act attempts to provide comprehensive support and services to victims of domestic violence, and formally recognizes domestic violence as a serious criminal offense worthy of prosecution.
National Toll Free Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
If you or someone you know is suffering from any form of domestic violence, whether physical or emotional, seek resources and assistance through the national toll free hotline listed above (911 if you are in immediate danger).
For more information, visit the National Resource Center on Domestic Violence.
