October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. According to the Domestic Violence Awareness Project, what started as a “Day of Unity” in 1981 quickly grew into a week, and then a month in 1987.
What is the purpose of Domestic Violence Awareness Month?
Designated domestic violence awareness days were started to “connect advocates across the nation who were working to end violence against women and their children.” During October, states and cities across the country hold programs and activities. The activities differ among locations, but they all center around three themes:
- Mourning individuals who have died due to domestic violence
- Celebrating individuals who have survived domestic violence
- Connecting individuals who are working or have worked to end domestic violence
About Domestic Violence
Domestic Violence is most often referred to as “a pattern of abusive behaviors…used by one intimate partner against another…to gain, maintain, or regain power and control in the relationship.” The abuser may use psychological, physical, or sexual attacks to get this control.
Understanding Domestic Violence
It may not always seem clear to an individual in a relationship whether or not there is domestic violence or abuse happening. However, there are resources that can provide insight into the patterns and warning signs of DV. The National Domestic Hotline and Break the Cycle are two such resources with a wide variety of helpful information.
Click here to learn more about the National Domestic Hotline for facts on abuse, or click here for more on Break the Cycle and patterns of violence.
How to Get Involved with Domestic Violence Support
If you want to help spread awareness about domestic violence, there are a number of ways to do so. These include:
- Taking the time to understand Domestic Violence and the facts of abuse.
- Share artwork from the DVAP with your family, friends, and on your social media accounts.
- Organize a campaign for DVAP, like #1 thing. Learn more about campaigns by clicking here.
- Reach out to the Domestic Violence Awareness Project for upcoming events and other ways to volunteer.
Artwork from the Domestic Violence Awareness Project
The DVAP has an archive of artwork that can be downloaded, shared, and customized for campaigns or just general awareness. If you would like to share some of this artwork, click here to see their archive.
Organize a Campaign
Domestic Violence Awareness Month has a large variety of activities and campaigns. Many of these campaigns and campaign ideas are organized by individuals and small groups across the country. The Domestic Violence Awareness Project has information on their website about how you can join in to help make them successful.
Reach Out
If you’d like to be more involved with the DVAP, you can contact them or take a look at their list of events. It’s important for individuals and other members of local communities to be involved in the spreading of awareness in order to make a real impact. Click here to contact them, or click here for more information on their events.
Local Resources for Domestic Violence Support
Crossroads Safe House
Crossroads Safehouse is a nonprofit organization that has provided shelter, food, clothing, and support to abused adults and their children in Fort Collins since 1980. Crossroads Safehouse provides safety, shelter, and the personal assistance and resources you need to build a life without violence. Services, including safehousing, advocacy, legal assistance, transitional housing, and education, are all free.
Learn more about Crossroads Safehouse Here
Local Healthcare Providers
If you have any questions about domestic violence or Domestic Violence Awareness Month, please contact us and we can help you find information and resources. You can also search our provider directory to find a provider in your area who can help you if you’re in need of medical assistance.
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