At the start of Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM), we encourage you to wear purple in the VI and everywhere, in solidarity with victims and survivors of domestic violence and to promote awareness of this serious crime in our community. The Purple Ribbon Campaign runs from October 1st through the 31st, with special days to spotlight support for survivors on October 3rd and 20th, this year!

What is domestic violence? 

Domestic violence refers to violent acts committed by a family or household member against another, such as child abuse, the mistreatment of one’s spouse or life partner or abuse of an elder. Perpetrators can exhibit more than one type of behavior that can include:

• pushing, shoving, punching, choking and other kinds of physical harm
• emotional abuse, including isolation, threats and gaslighting
• financial abuse or control over household money or another’s personal accounts
• rape, forced sexual behavior with others or other kinds of sexual violence
• withholding passport, government-issued identification or immigration documents
• threats to reveal information about a family member or intimate partner’s sexual orientation or gender identity
• threats to reveal information about a family member or intimate partner’s immigration status

If you or someone you know need help in dealing with domestic abuse or violence in a family or intimate relationship, in an emergency, please call 911 from a landline or 340.772.9111 from a mobile phone. Our 24/7 hotline is available every day of the year for crisis intervention and support without judgment, at 340.773.9272. Call our main office/crisis center at 340.773.9272, during business hours 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., for information on the free and confidential services we offer in the community. We are here for you.