October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Abusive behavior can be physical, emotional, sexual, economic and/or psychological and often results in long term public health and social ramifications for the victim(s), including decreased income due to missing work as well as the physical and emotional scars that require healing. Domestic Violence occurs in all communities and among all populations.
Governor Doug Ducey is hosting the second Annual Statewide Domestic Violence Awareness event from 6 to 7 p.m. on October 3 and will light the State Capitol purple as a symbol of Arizona’s commitment to end domestic violence. You can attend the event by registering here. You can also demonstrate your support for ending domestic violence by purchasing a purple light bulb at your local Home Depot and displaying the purple light during the month of October.
If you know someone who is a victim of domestic violence you can support them by listening without making judgmental statements and by refraining from telling them what you believe they should do. It is best to acknowledge that the victim is in a very difficult situation and remain supportive. You can also learn about resources available to domestic violence victims such as the National Domestic Violence Hotline and the Arizona Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence. You can support those who come to you by encouraging them to contact people who can help and connecting them to resources whether they plan to leave the abuser or remain in the current situation.
