Take a Stand This Domestic Violence Awareness Month

Every October, Domestic Violence Awareness Month aims to honor those lost to abuse, advocate for survivors, and network for change. Chances are good that someone you know has lived through domestic violence. One in four women, one in nine men, and one in four LGBT+ individuals report being involved in an abusive relationship while more than 45 million children witnessed the abuse -and we can’t be sure those numbers accurately represent survivors since so many voices go unheard.

DVAM started as the Day of Unity in October 1981. A week-long event aiming to bring awareness to the topic of domestic violence, Day of Unity became a month-long event by October 1987. This was the same year the first toll-free domestic violence hotline began taking calls from individuals experiencing abuse. Two years later, the U.S. government designated October as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

Why You Should Participate in DVAM

A staggering number of people experience domestic violence. It most commonly involves physical and psychological abuse, but also includes financial and sexual abuse.

Rare is it that we see the real version of people when they are at home in their comfort zone, free from judgment from others. We think life is good for most people when on average, 20 people per minute in the U.S. experience abuse at the hands of someone they love.

Victims stay with abusive partners for many reasons. Often, they are blindsided by the abuse and no longer have the willpower to react. Some normalize abuse, often related to the psychological damage they've endured already. Victims may not have family to support them, may not have financial means to leave, or may stay out of fear. Other victims stay because they think going to the police will make matters worse or think their lover will change. The reasons why people stay with abusers are endless, although most do not enjoy the experience: they need help.

Participating in DVAM gives you the knowledge to help those who cannot seem to find a way out, who need a voice of reason, or who simply need someone to listen to their tears. Your knowledge allows you to empathize with individuals, potentially loved ones, on a personal level that benefits them tremendously.

Participating in the month’s events can also help stop the spread of the misconceptions and myths surrounding domestic violence. It could very well be a family member, coworker, or friend who needs your understanding and knowledge of the topic.

How to Participate in DVAM 2023

The 2023 DVAM theme is “#Every1knowssome1." As previously mentioned, domestic violence runs rampant throughout the U.S. although often gets pushed under the rug. Misunderstanding and embarrassment are common reasons why people do not wish to discuss domestic violence. Knowing that domestic violence is so prevalent can give victims the support needed to come forward and speak up, potentially saving their lives.

There are several ways to participate in DVAM and support and advocate for those who may not have yet found their voice. Community events, spreading the word, and wearing purple are some of the ways you can support the month’s activities and an important cause. Most don’t require money to participate (although you can always donate to an organization like the National Domestic Violence Association)

* Tell Your Story

Perhaps you are one of the millions of survivors who understand exactly what others are going through, yet your story remains untold. You were quiet long enough. Release the pain, tell your story, and you can help others thrive while lessening the burden on your shoulders.

If you are not comfortable sharing face-to-face with family/friends, alternative ideas to get your story out there include writing a story on a blog site (like Vocal!) or writing a book.

* Wear a Purple Ribbon

A purple ribbon worn on your t-shirt, backpack, or elsewhere shows you stand in support of domestic violence survivors and those who lost their lives at the hands of someone they loved. Additionally, wearing the ribbon opens the door to discussions about domestic violence where you can provide your newly learned information and guidance.

* Support Survivors

Survivors often find themselves struggling mentally and financially after leaving an abusive partner. Many start their own businesses to provide them with income. Support their business, whether they write a blog or sell homemade goods, and know you have made a huge impact in the lives of survivors attempting to live independently, free from violence, abuse, and harm.

* Attend DVAM Community Events

DVAM community events take place in most major cities throughout the month of October. From parades to t-shirt design events, each themed event brings survivors and supporters together to bring awareness to domestic violence and its effects on not only the victims but the entire community. Events also provide useful resources that victims may need.

Consider attending the Domestic Violence 101 Webinar Series to learn vital information about domestic violence, how it affects victims, its impact on the community, common abuse tactics, and other vital information. Each one-hour class is free and open to all.

* Be Available

After educating yourself around the topic of domestic violence you can be available to those in need. Whether the person needs someone to talk to, resources, or information, you can make a significant impact in their life simply by being available to them.

* Raise Awareness

Although DVAM has been a thing for nearly 40 years, many people still aren’t aware that it exists. Help change that by spreading the word about DVAM and its purpose to raise awareness about domestic violence. You may even find it appropriate to start a conversation about domestic violence, especially if you advocate on social media versus in person.*

* Advocate for Policy Changes

Support organizations that work to address domestic violence and advocate for changes in policies and laws aimed at keeping survivors safe.