October marks the beginning of Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM), a time when communities across the nation come together to raise awareness about domestic violence, support survivors, and take action to end the cycle of abuse. This year, as BRASS, Inc. celebrates 44 years of service, our mission to combat domestic violence remains as critical as ever. Domestic violence affects individuals of all backgrounds and ages, and through awareness and education, we can help create safer environments for survivors and their families.
What is Domestic Violence?
Domestic violence is more than just physical abuse—it’s a pattern of behavior used by one person to gain power and control over another person in an intimate relationship. It can take many forms, including:
Physical abuse: Hitting, slapping, pushing, or using physical force to harm someone.
Emotional and psychological abuse: Manipulation, humiliation, threats, or isolation designed to erode a person’s self-worth.
Sexual abuse: Forcing someone to engage in sexual acts without their consent or through coercion.
Financial abuse: Controlling or restricting access to money, employment, or resources, keeping the survivor dependent on the abuser.
Digital abuse: Using technology to monitor, harass, or intimidate, such as through social media, texting, or tracking apps.
Many people still associate domestic violence primarily with physical harm, but as these examples show, it often goes far beyond that. Emotional, financial, and psychological abuse can be just as damaging, leaving deep scars on a person’s mental and emotional well-being. Survivors may feel trapped, isolated, and powerless, and many hesitate to leave abusive relationships for fear of retaliation, lack of resources, or concern for their children or pets.
Why the Purple Ribbon?
The purple ribbon is a powerful symbol of strength, survival, and hope for those affected by domestic violence. It serves as a reminder that survivors should be supported, not judged. This October, we encourage everyone to wear purple or display purple ribbons to show solidarity with survivors and bring attention to the issue of domestic violence.
BRASS Events This Month
At BRASS, Inc., we have a full month of events and activities planned to help spread awareness and support survivors in our community. One of the most important events this month is our Candlelight Vigil on October 24th at Circus Square Park. This vigil is an opportunity for us to remember and honor the lives lost to domestic violence in our area, and to stand in solidarity with survivors and their families. We hope you’ll join us for this moving tribute. More details about the event will be shared soon.
Additionally, we’re kicking off our October canned goods drive, which helps provide essential resources to the survivors in our shelter. These donations ensure we can continue to offer comprehensive care and support to individuals and families in crisis. Click here for more information.
How You Can Take Action
DVAM is a time for reflection and action. Whether you’re new to the cause or have been supporting survivors for years, there are many ways to get involved:
Attend our Candlelight Vigil: Join us on October 24th to remember the lives lost and recommit to ending domestic violence in our community.
Donate: This month’s canned goods drive helps ensure that survivors in our shelter receive the essentials they need. Financial donations also directly support the vital services we provide, from emergency shelter to counseling.
Volunteer: Whether it’s helping with events or offering your time to assist survivors, BRASS always welcomes volunteers who want to make a difference. Link to sign up
Educate yourself and others: Start conversations about domestic violence. Challenge harmful myths like "Why didn’t they just leave?" and instead share resources and facts. For example, did you know that it can take multiple attempts for a survivor to leave an abusive relationship safely? By spreading awareness, you’re helping to break down the stigma.
Understanding the Barriers Survivors Face
One of the most common questions people ask when they hear about domestic violence is, “Why don’t they just leave?” The truth is, leaving an abusive relationship is extremely complicated. Survivors often face many barriers that make it difficult to escape, such as:
Fear of retaliation: Many survivors are afraid that leaving will provoke more violence from their abuser.
Financial dependence: Survivors may not have the financial resources to leave or fear losing their homes, jobs, or access to children.
Isolation: Abusers often isolate survivors from friends, family, and support networks, making it hard for them to reach out for help.
Emotional manipulation: Abusers may use guilt, shame, or threats to keep survivors from leaving.
Children and pets: Survivors may stay because they’re worried about their children’s or pets’ safety if they leave.
By understanding these barriers, we can better support survivors and provide them with the tools and resources they need to safely escape abusive situations. A Call to Action
As we embark on Domestic Violence Awareness Month 2024, we urge everyone to take part in raising awareness and supporting survivors. Domestic violence affects people from all walks of life, but together, we can create a future where everyone feels safe in their homes and relationships. Let’s make this October a month of action, compassion, and hope.
For more information on our events, resources, or how you can get involved, follow us on social media or visit our website. Let’s stand together for survivors and take action to end domestic violence once and for all.
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