October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
When we consider why we need to promote awareness around domestic violence, our answer is that the issue continues to be overlooked and under-reported.
It is uncomfortable to discuss and difficult to reckon with the fact that domestic violence is happening in our world, let alone in our community. Sometimes we hope that if we ignore it or minimize it, maybe it will go away. Maybe we will feel safer. Maybe it helps us say to ourselves, “That will never be me,” or “This isn’t happening to anyone I know.”
However, being a victim or survivor of domestic violence is not determined by our identity, our location, our station in life, and so on. It is possible for people of any and all ages, genders, sexualities, classes, races, nationalities, religions, and professions to experience abuse at the hands of an intimate partner.
Domestic violence affects our entire community, because everyone, whether they know it or not, knows someone affected by domestic violence. It could be your colleague, a member of your church, the parent of your child’s school friend, your student, your teacher, your neighbor, or a member of your family. As a result, eradicating domestic violence must be a community endeavor.
How can I play a role in raising awareness to end domestic violence?
- Create purple ribbons to distribute to your group, workplace, or organization. Please see the image shared here for directions. The Advocacy Center has limited supplies available for larger groups wanting to make ribbons together as a team. These supplies are first come, first served. Email us at info@actompkins.org to pick up materials and ask questions.
We encourage individuals to participate, as well! If you don’t belong to a group or organization, we’d still love to see you wearing a purple ribbon out and about in our community to spread awareness. You can find the materials you will need at any craft store. - Participate in Purple Thursday on October 19. Get your group, workplace, or organization to wear purple with a purpose. Share why you’re wearing purple across social media channels. We love seeing your purple pics! Send any images you’d like to share with us to info@actompkins.org.
3. Pick up Advocacy Center materials, like pamphlets, brochures, and posters, to display at your workplace or organization. We have educational materials to help people learn about what domestic violence is and what it looks like. We also have materials that explain the services we provide with information on how to connect with us. These materials are free to members of our community who want them. Email us at info@actompkins.org or call our office number at 607-277-3203 to request a time to pick some up.
4. Stay tuned for events and further info. We will be updating this page with more ways to get involved, including events, workshops, and reading recommendations!
Domestic Violence Awareness Month Reading List
Activity for all ages: awareness coloring sheets!
The National Network to End Domestic Violence (NNEDV) and Caitlin Rose Illustration developed these fantastic coloring sheets featuring cute animals and affirming messages. Please see some of our favorite images below, and go to the NNEDV website to view and download the entire collection!
