PHOENIX — October is Domestic Violence Awareness month, and cities all across Arizona are lighting up in purple to raise awareness.
One in every four women and one in seven men will experience domestic violence in their lives, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Each year, the Arizona Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence (ACESDV) partners with state and cities to promote a day for all Arizonans to come together and wear purple to raise awareness about the issue. The goal is to show support for the many victims of domestic violence who are actively escaping dangerous situations, who are still in abusive environments, and those who have lost their lives.
According to the ACESDV, just last year, there were at least 86 deaths as a result of domestic violence in Arizona, and 60% percent of those happened in Maricopa County. Read more statistics about domestic violence here.
You'll see shades of purple across the Valley throughout the month, including Thursday, as October 24 is "Wear Purple Day."
Governor Doug Ducey launched a month-long campaign called Lighting Arizona Purple. Every year, leaders light the State Capitol dome purple as a symbol of strength and hope to survivors. Learn more about the state’s campaign here.
In 2013, the city of Phoenix launched a campaign called Paint Phoenix Purple. City Hall is lit purple for the entire month and Phoenix holds its annual Donation Drive for victims of domestic violence. There are three locations for drop-offs:
You can take donations of full-size toiletries, feminine hygiene products, hair products, diapers, new socks and underwear, cleaning supplies and prepaid phones to:
- Family Advocacy Center: 2120 N. Central Ave.
- John F. Long Family Services Center: 3454 N 51st Ave.
- Shadow Mountain Senior Center: 3546 E. Sweetwater Ave.
Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
If you or someone you know needs victim services, please contact:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233
- Family Advocacy Center: 602-534-2120
