Purple Ribbon Campaign
Domestic Violence Awareness Month:
Once again, DVSAC joins domestic violence advocates throughout California to commemorate October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM). DVAM evolved from the “Day of Unity” in October 1981 conceived by the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence. The intent was to connect advocates across the nation who were working to end violence against women and their children. The Day of Unity soon became an entire week devoted to a range of activities conducted at the local, state, and national levels.
The activities conducted were as varied and diverse as the program sponsors but had common themes: mourning those who have died because of domestic violence, celebrating those who have survived, and connecting those who work to end violence.
In October 1987, the first Domestic Violence Awareness Month was observed. That same year marks the initiation of the first national domestic violence toll-free hotline. In 1989 the U.S. Congress passed Public Law 101-112 designating October of that year as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Such legislation has passed every year since with the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence providing key leadership in this effort. Each year, the Day of Unity is celebrated the first Monday of Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
During the month of October, DVSAC is partnering with the Grass Valley Downtown Association for the Purple ribbon Campaign. Visit downtown Grass Valley and see the lampposts wrapped in purple ribbon with information on domestic violence. Pick up your free purple ribbon at participating downtown merchants to show your support for someone you know and your stand on this issue. Stay connected with DVSAC to find out what other types of events and campaigns will be going on in October for DVAM.
Come join us at the Smith Vineyard Tasting Room for a Fundraiser October 27th!
– Adapted from the 1996 Domestic Violence Awareness Month Resource Manual of the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence.