Many exciting things happen in October; Halloween, Fall Breaks and many pumpkin themed events. A very important fact about October is that it is now Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and something that should not and cannot go unnoticed. Domestic violence is often hidden from friends and family, and can manifest itself in different ways. Harmful and demeaning words to actual physical violence between people who should love each other can be considered abuse, and none of it is easy to deal with.
Domestic violence does not discriminate: it affects people of all genders, races and sexual orientations. If you can, find a way to raise awareness about the realities of domestic violence. You can do something as simple as wearing purple to show solidarity and start a conversation about why a world without domestic violence is important to you. The National Network to End Domestic Violence (NNEDV) is one great source to find ways to help raise awareness and help out. You can do anything from donating to help sufferers to learning how to start a conversation with friends and family explicitly about the horrors of domestic violence.
Another source of information the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV). They have a strong stance trying to rid society of domestic violence of all kinds, in as many ways possible. If you or anyone you know is or may be a victim of domestic abuse, call the National Domestic Abuse Hotline 1-800-799-SAFE.
1 in 4 women is a victim of domestic violence. That's 1 in 4 too many.
