The Commission on Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault is calling on all Milwaukee area residents to wear purple on Purple Thursday, October 18, as a sign of support for local survivors and to honor the lives lost to domestic violence. The effort is part of the annual Domestic Violence Awareness month in Milwaukee.

Domestic Violence Awareness Month evolved from a national “Day of Unity” held in October 1981 through the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence. The intent was to connect advocates across the nation who work to end intimate partner violence. Locally, the Milwaukee Commission of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault, along with local organizations come together to:

• Mourn those who have lost lives because of domestic violence
• Celebrate those who have survived
• Increase community awareness of resources and services
• Educate on all forms of domestic violence and warning signs

This year we join our national allies in emphasizing a call to action to bring not only awareness to the issue but demand action to break the cycle. By taking a stand, we intend to remind the nation that there are still countless people impacted by domestic violence including survivors, their children, families, friends and the community. Locally, we ask every individual, employer, and organization to wear purple on Purple Thursday as a message of support for survivors. Through the Office of Violence Prevention (OVP) and the Commission on Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault, the city remains committed to raising awareness of this issue and engaging all segments of our community in putting an end to domestic violence.

Domestic Violence Awareness Month Milwaukee provides the opportunity for us to unite and expose intimate partner violence. This year, local efforts include a press conference at the City Hall Rotunda on October 18. There are also many local events taking place to honor survivors and advocates throughout the month.

Starting Tuesday, October 16, purple ribbons will be available, free of charge, in the City Hall Rotunda for community members to show support for this cause. Everyone is encouraged to wear their ribbon throughout October to take a stand against domestic violence.

Those interested in raising awareness and standing with survivors through social media can tag the City of Milwaukee Office of Violence Prevention’s Facebook page on Purple Thursday with group photos wearing purple in support of these efforts. Also, use the hashtags #EndDomesticViolenceMKE #PurpleThursday #414Life on all social media outlets.

Domestic Violence Awareness Month Milwaukee is coordinated and supported by a collaborative group of organizations, including the City of Milwaukee Commission on Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault, OVP, Sojourner

Family Peace Center, UMOS, and Asha Family Services.